U.S. patent application number 15/769550 was filed with the patent office on 2018-10-25 for system and method for fluid engagement with a pressure jacket and syringe cap.
This patent application is currently assigned to BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC. Invention is credited to CHRISTOPHER D. CAPONE, KEVIN P. COWAN, JAMES A. DEDIG, RICHARD A. SEMAN, MICHAEL J. SWANTNER, BARRY L. TUCKER, ARTHUR E. UBER, III.
Application Number | 20180304007 15/769550 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58631230 |
Filed Date | 2018-10-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180304007 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SWANTNER; MICHAEL J. ; et
al. |
October 25, 2018 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FLUID ENGAGEMENT WITH A PRESSURE JACKET AND
SYRINGE CAP
Abstract
A pressure jacket for use with a fluid injector may have a
pressure jacket body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a
circumferential sidewall extending between the proximal end and the
distal end along a pressure jacket longitudinal axis. The pressure
jacket may further have at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member having a first segment attached to the pressure
jacket body and a second segment protruding from the first segment
toward the distal end of the pressure jacket body and deflectable
relative to the first segment. The pressure jacket may further have
at least one actuation member associated with the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member. The at least one
actuation member may interact with a housing of the fluid injector
when the pressure jacket is connected to the housing to deflect the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member upon rotation
of the pressure jacket.
Inventors: |
SWANTNER; MICHAEL J.;
(SAXONBURG, PA) ; SEMAN; RICHARD A.; (DELMONT,
PA) ; TUCKER; BARRY L.; (VERONA, PA) ; UBER,
III; ARTHUR E.; (PITTSBURGH, PA) ; COWAN; KEVIN
P.; (ALLISON PARK, PA) ; DEDIG; JAMES A.;
(PITTSBURGH, PA) ; CAPONE; CHRISTOPHER D.;
(PITTSBURGH, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC |
WHIPPANY |
NJ |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC
WHIPPANY
NJ
|
Family ID: |
58631230 |
Appl. No.: |
15/769550 |
Filed: |
October 28, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
October 28, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US16/59245 |
371 Date: |
April 19, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62247534 |
Oct 28, 2015 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 5/14566 20130101;
A61M 5/31515 20130101; A61M 2205/332 20130101; A61M 2005/14573
20130101; A61M 5/14546 20130101; A61M 2005/14553 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 5/145 20060101
A61M005/145; A61M 5/315 20060101 A61M005/315 |
Claims
1. A pressure jacket for use with a fluid injector and syringe, the
pressure jacket comprising: a pressure jacket body having a
proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a
pressure jacket longitudinal axis; at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member having a first segment attached to the
pressure jacket body near the proximal end and a second segment
protruding from the first segment toward the distal end of the
pressure jacket body and deflectable relative to the first segment;
and at least one actuation member associated with the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member, wherein the at least one
actuation member interacts with a housing of the fluid injector
when the pressure jacket is connected to the housing to deflect the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member upon rotation
of the pressure jacket relative to the housing during disengagement
of the pressure jacket from the housing.
2. The pressure jacket according to claim 1, further comprising at
least one alignment member associated with the proximal end of the
pressure jacket body or the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member, the at least one alignment member having an
alignment surface for guiding the housing into self-orienting
alignment with the pressure jacket during engagement of the
pressure jacket with the housing.
3. The pressure jacket according to claim 2, wherein the at least
one alignment member comprises a plurality of alignment members
spaced apart around a circumference the circumferential wall of the
proximal end of the pressure jacket.
4. The pressure jacket according to claim 3, wherein the plurality
of alignment members are spaced apart at equal radial intervals
around the circumference the circumferential wall of the proximal
end of the pressure jacket.
5. The pressure jacket according to claim 1, wherein the second
segment of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member is deflectable radially relative to the first segment away
from the pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
6. The pressure jacket according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member is linearly or
curvilinearly contiguous between the first segment and the second
segment.
7. The pressure jacket according to claim 1, wherein the second
segment of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member is angled toward the pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
8. The pressure jacket according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one actuation member is provided on a surface of the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member.
9. The pressure jacket according to claim 8, wherein the at least
one actuation member is at the second segment of the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member.
10. The pressure jacket according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one actuation member is angled relative to a plane defined by a
body of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member.
11. A syringe cap for use with a pressure jacket, the syringe cap
comprising: a syringe cap body having a proximal end, a distal end,
and a circumferential sidewall extending between the proximal end
and the distal end along a syringe cap longitudinal axis; at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member having a first segment
attached to the syringe cap body near the proximal end and a second
segment protruding from the first segment toward the distal end of
the syringe cap body and deflectable relative to the first segment;
and at least one actuation member associated with the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member, wherein the at least one
actuation member interacts with the pressure jacket when the
syringe cap is connected to the pressure jacket to deflect the at
least one resiliently deflectable retaining member upon rotation of
the syringe cap relative to the pressure jacket during
disengagement of the syringe cap from the pressure jacket.
12. The syringe cap according to claim 11, further comprising at
least one alignment member associated with proximal end of the
syringe cap body or the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member, the at least one alignment member having an
alignment surface for guiding the pressure jacket into
self-orienting alignment with the syringe cap during engagement of
the syringe cap with the pressure jacket.
13. The syringe cap according to claim 12, wherein the at least one
alignment member comprises a plurality of alignment members spaced
apart around a circumference the circumferential wall of the
proximal end of the syringe cap.
14. The syringe cap according to claim 13, wherein the plurality of
alignment members are spaced apart at equal radial intervals around
the circumference the circumferential wall of the proximal end of
the syringe cap.
15. The syringe cap according to claim 11, wherein the second
segment of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member is deflectable radially relative to the first segment away
from the syringe cap longitudinal axis.
16. The syringe cap according to claim 11, wherein the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member is linearly or
curvilinearly contiguous between the first segment and the second
segment.
17. The syringe cap according to claim 11, wherein the second
segment of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member is angled toward the syringe cap longitudinal axis.
18. The syringe cap according to claim 11, wherein the at least one
actuation member is provided on a surface of the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member.
19. The syringe cap according to claim 18, wherein the at least one
actuation member is at the second segment of the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member.
20. A pressure jacket and syringe cap assembly comprising; a
pressure jacket comprising a pressure jacket body having a proximal
end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall extending between
the proximal end and the distal end along a pressure jacket
longitudinal axis; a syringe cap comprising a syringe cap body
having a proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a
syringe cap longitudinal axis; and at least one connector assembly
for releasably attaching the proximal end of the syringe cap to the
distal end of the pressure jacket, the at least one connector
assembly comprising: at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member having a first segment attached to the syringe cap body near
the proximal end and a second segment protruding from the first
segment and deflectable relative to the first segment; at least one
actuation member associated with the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member; and a radial lip defined on the
pressure jacket body, wherein the at least one actuation member
interacts with the radial lip when the syringe cap is connected to
the pressure jacket to deflect the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member upon rotation of the syringe cap
relative to the pressure jacket during disengagement of the syringe
cap from the pressure jacket.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/247,534, filed on Oct. 28, 2015 and
entitled "System and Method for Fluid Injector Engagement with a
Pressure Jacket and Syringe Cap", the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Field of the Disclosure
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a system
including a front-loading syringe for use with a fluid injector
and, further, to a connection interface for securing a syringe
plunger to a piston of the fluid injector and to a method for
engaging and disengaging the syringe plunger to and from the piston
of the fluid injector. The present disclosure also relates to a
connection interface for securing a pressure jacket to a fluid
injector housing, as well as a connection interface for securing a
syringe cap to a pressure jacket.
Description of Related Art
[0003] In many medical diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, a
medical practitioner, such as a physician, injects a patient with
one or more medical fluids. In recent years, a number of
injector-actuated syringes and fluid injectors for pressurized
injection of fluids, such as a contrast solution (often referred to
simply as "contrast"), a flushing agent, such as saline, and other
medical fluids have been developed for use in procedures such as
angiography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and
other imaging procedures. In general, these fluid injectors are
designed to deliver a preset amount of fluid at a preset flow
rate.
[0004] Various connection interfaces have been developed to
facilitate the engagement of a syringe plunger to and from a piston
of the fluid injector. In some aspects, the syringe having a
retention feature is inserted into a syringe port on the fluid
injector by aligning the syringe with a corresponding locking
feature provided on the fluid injector. Such alignment also aligns
the plunger in the syringe with the piston on the fluid injector
such that the piston can engage the plunger and reciprocally drive
the plunger through the syringe barrel to withdraw fluid into the
syringe barrel or deliver fluid from the syringe barrel. In other
aspects, upon initial engagement with the plunger, the piston is
rotated, in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, until the
piston engages a catch on the plunger. In further aspects, the
piston has one or more radially-extendable pins that engage a lip
on the plunger.
[0005] Many of the existing connection interfaces have construction
that requires a complex piston head with various sensor elements
and active engagement structures. There is a need in the art for an
improved connection interface that allows for a simpler and easier
engagement and disengagement of the syringe plunger to and from the
piston of the fluid injector. There is a further need in the art
for reducing or eliminating the need for the operator to
rotationally align the syringe with the fluid injector prior to
engagement of the syringe plunger with the piston of the fluid
injector. There is further a need in the art for an improved
connection interface that allows for a simpler and easier
engagement and disengagement of the pressure jacket with the fluid
injector, and the pressure jacket to a syringe cap. While various
syringe connection interfaces and methods are known in the medical
field, improved connection interfaces between the syringe plunger
and the piston of the fluid injector and methods for engaging and
disengaging the syringe plunger to and from the piston of the fluid
injector continue to be in demand.
SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE
[0006] In view of the disadvantages of the existing connection
interfaces between a syringe plunger and a piston of a fluid
injector, there is a need in the art for an improved connection
interface between a syringe plunger and a piston of a fluid
injector that overcomes the deficiencies of the prior art. There is
an additional need for improved methods for engaging and
disengaging a syringe plunger to and from a piston of a fluid
injector to allow easy loading or removal of a syringe to and from
a fluid injector. There is an additional need an improved
connection interface between a pressure jacket and a fluid
injector, and an improved connection interface between a pressure
jacket and a syringe cap, that overcomes the deficiencies of the
prior art.
[0007] In accordance with some aspects, a pressure jacket for use
with a fluid injector and syringe may have a pressure jacket body
having a proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a
pressure jacket longitudinal axis. The pressure jacket may further
have at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member having a
first segment attached to the pressure jacket body and a second
segment protruding from the first segment toward the distal end of
the pressure jacket body and deflectable relative to the first
segment. The pressure jacket may further have at least one
actuation member associated with the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member. The at least one actuation member may
interact with a housing of the fluid injector when the pressure
jacket is connected to the housing to deflect the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member upon rotation of the
pressure jacket relative to the housing during disengagement of the
pressure jacket from the housing.
[0008] In accordance with other aspects, the pressure jacket may
further have at least one alignment member associated with the
pressure jacket body or the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member. The at least one alignment member may have an
alignment surface for guiding the housing into self-orienting
alignment with the pressure jacket during engagement of the
pressure jacket with the housing.
[0009] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one alignment
member may have a plurality of alignment members spaced apart
around the pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
[0010] In accordance with other aspects, the plurality of alignment
members may be spaced apart at equal radial intervals around the
pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
[0011] In accordance with other aspects, the second segment of the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member may be
deflectable radially relative to the first segment away from the
pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
[0012] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member may be linearly or
curvilinearly contiguous between the first segment and the second
segment.
[0013] In accordance with other aspects, the second segment of the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member may be angled
toward the pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
[0014] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one actuation
member may be provided on a surface of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member.
[0015] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one actuation
member may be at the second segment of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member.
[0016] In accordance with other aspects, a syringe cap for use with
a pressure jacket may have a syringe cap body having a proximal
end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall extending between
the proximal end and the distal end along a syringe cap
longitudinal axis. The syringe cap may further have at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member having a first segment
attached to the syringe cap body and a second segment protruding
from the first segment toward the distal end of the syringe cap
body and deflectable relative to the first segment. The syringe cap
may further have at least one actuation member associated with the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member. The at least
one actuation member may interact with the pressure jacket when the
syringe cap is connected to the pressure jacket to deflect the at
least one resiliently deflectable retaining member upon rotation of
the syringe cap relative to the pressure jacket during
disengagement of the syringe cap from the pressure jacket.
[0017] In accordance with other aspects, the syringe cap may
further have at least one alignment member associated with the
syringe cap body or the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member. The at least one alignment member may have an
alignment surface for guiding the pressure jacket into
self-orienting alignment with the syringe cap during engagement of
the syringe cap with the pressure jacket.
[0018] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one alignment
member may have a plurality of alignment members spaced apart
around the syringe cap longitudinal axis.
[0019] In accordance with other aspects, the plurality of alignment
members may be spaced apart at equal radial intervals around the
syringe cap longitudinal axis.
[0020] In accordance with other aspects, the second segment of the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member may be
deflectable radially relative to the first segment away from the
syringe cap longitudinal axis.
[0021] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one
resiliently deflectable retaining member may be linearly or
curvilinearly contiguous between the first segment and the second
segment.
[0022] In accordance with other aspects, the second segment of the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member may be angled
toward the syringe cap longitudinal axis.
[0023] In accordance with other aspects, the at least one actuation
member may be provided on a surface of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member.
[0024] In accordance with other aspects a pressure jacket and
syringe cap assembly may have a pressure jacket having a pressure
jacket body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a
circumferential sidewall extending between the proximal end and the
distal end along a pressure jacket longitudinal axis. The pressure
jacket and syringe cap assembly may further have a syringe cap
having a syringe cap body having a proximal end, a distal end, and
a circumferential sidewall extending between the proximal end and
the distal end along a syringe cap longitudinal axis. The pressure
jacket and syringe cap assembly may further have at least one
connector assembly for releasably attaching the proximal end of the
syringe cap to the distal end of the pressure jacket. The at least
one connector assembly may have at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member having a first segment attached to one
of the syringe cap body and the pressure jacket body, and a second
segment protruding from the first segment and deflectable relative
to the first segment. The at least one connector assembly may
further have at least one actuation member associated with the at
least one resiliently deflectable retaining member. The at least
one connector assembly may further have a radial lip defined on the
other of the syringe cap body and the pressure jacket body. The at
least one actuation member may interact with the radial lip when
the syringe cap is connected to the pressure jacket to deflect the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member upon rotation
of the syringe cap relative to the pressure jacket during
disengagement of the syringe cap from the pressure jacket.
[0025] Various aspects of the present disclosure may be further
characterized by one or more of the following clauses:
[0026] Clause 1. A pressure jacket for use with a fluid injector
and syringe, the pressure jacket comprising:
[0027] a pressure jacket body having a proximal end, a distal end,
and a circumferential sidewall extending between the proximal end
and the distal end along a pressure jacket longitudinal axis;
[0028] at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member having
a first segment attached to the pressure jacket body and a second
segment protruding from the first segment toward the distal end of
the pressure jacket body and deflectable relative to the first
segment; and
[0029] at least one actuation member associated with the at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member,
[0030] wherein the at least one actuation member interacts with a
housing of the fluid injector when the pressure jacket is connected
to the housing to deflect the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member upon rotation of the pressure jacket relative to
the housing during disengagement of the pressure jacket from the
housing.
[0031] Clause 2. The pressure jacket according to clause 1, further
comprising at least one alignment member associated with the
pressure jacket body or the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member, the at least one alignment member having an
alignment surface for guiding the housing into self-orienting
alignment with the pressure jacket during engagement of the
pressure jacket with the housing.
[0032] Clause 3. The pressure jacket according to clause 2, wherein
the at least one alignment member comprises a plurality of
alignment members spaced apart around the pressure jacket
longitudinal axis.
[0033] Clause 4. The pressure jacket according to clause 3, wherein
the plurality of alignment members are spaced apart at equal radial
intervals around the pressure jacket longitudinal axis.
[0034] Clause 5. The pressure jacket according to any of clauses
1-4, wherein the second segment of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member is deflectable radially relative to
the first segment away from the pressure jacket longitudinal
axis.
[0035] Clause 6. The pressure jacket according to any of clauses
1-5, wherein the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member is linearly or curvilinearly contiguous between the first
segment and the second segment.
[0036] Clause 7. The pressure jacket according to any of clauses
1-6, wherein the second segment of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member is angled toward the pressure jacket
longitudinal axis.
[0037] Clause 8. The pressure jacket according to any of clauses
1-7, wherein the at least one actuation member is provided on a
surface of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member.
[0038] Clause 9. The pressure jacket according to clause 8, wherein
the at least one actuation member is at the second segment of the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member.
[0039] Clause 10. The pressure jacket according to any of clauses
1-9, wherein the at least one actuation member is angled relative
to a plane defined by a body of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member.
[0040] Clause 11. A syringe cap for use with a pressure jacket, the
syringe cap comprising:
[0041] a syringe cap body having a proximal end, a distal end, and
a circumferential sidewall extending between the proximal end and
the distal end along a syringe cap longitudinal axis;
[0042] at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member having
a first segment attached to the syringe cap body and a second
segment protruding from the first segment toward the distal end of
the syringe cap body and deflectable relative to the first segment;
and
[0043] at least one actuation member associated with the at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member,
[0044] wherein the at least one actuation member interacts with the
pressure jacket when the syringe cap is connected to the pressure
jacket to deflect the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member upon rotation of the syringe cap relative to the
pressure jacket during disengagement of the syringe cap from the
pressure jacket.
[0045] Clause 12. The syringe cap according to clause 11, further
comprising at least one alignment member associated with the
syringe cap body or the at least one resiliently deflectable
retaining member, the at least one alignment member having an
alignment surface for guiding the pressure jacket into
self-orienting alignment with the syringe cap during engagement of
the syringe cap with the pressure jacket.
[0046] Clause 13. The syringe cap according to clause 12, wherein
the at least one alignment member comprises a plurality of
alignment members spaced apart around the syringe cap longitudinal
axis.
[0047] Clause 14. The syringe cap according to clause 13, wherein
the plurality of alignment members are spaced apart at equal radial
intervals around the syringe cap longitudinal axis.
[0048] Clause 15. The syringe cap according to any of clauses
11-14, wherein the second segment of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member is deflectable radially relative to
the first segment away from the syringe cap longitudinal axis.
[0049] Clause 16. The syringe cap according to any of clauses
11-15, wherein the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member is linearly or curvilinearly contiguous between the first
segment and the second segment.
[0050] Clause 17. The syringe cap according to any of clauses
11-16, wherein the second segment of the at least one resiliently
deflectable retaining member is angled toward the syringe cap
longitudinal axis.
[0051] Clause 18. The syringe cap according to any of clauses
11-17, wherein the at least one actuation member is provided on a
surface of the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member.
[0052] Clause 19. The syringe cap according to claim 18, wherein
the at least one actuation member is at the second segment of the
at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member.
[0053] Clause 20. A pressure jacket and syringe cap assembly
comprising;
[0054] a pressure jacket comprising a pressure jacket body having a
proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a
pressure jacket longitudinal axis;
[0055] a syringe cap comprising a syringe cap body having a
proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a
syringe cap longitudinal axis; and
[0056] at least one connector assembly for releasably attaching the
proximal end of the syringe cap to the distal end of the pressure
jacket, the at least one connector assembly comprising:
[0057] at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member having
a first segment attached to one of the syringe cap body and the
pressure jacket body, and a second segment protruding from the
first segment and deflectable relative to the first segment;
[0058] at least one actuation member associated with the at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member; and
[0059] a radial lip defined on the other of the syringe cap body
and the pressure jacket body,
[0060] wherein the at least one actuation member interacts with the
radial lip when the syringe cap is connected to the pressure jacket
to deflect the at least one resiliently deflectable retaining
member upon rotation of the syringe cap relative to the pressure
jacket during disengagement of the syringe cap from the pressure
jacket.
[0061] These and other features and characteristics of syringes,
syringe plungers, pressure jackets, and systems having syringes,
syringe plungers, and/or pressure jackets, as well as the methods
of operation and functions of the related elements of structures
and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will
become more apparent upon consideration of the following
description and the appended claims with reference to the
accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this
specification, wherein like reference numerals designate
corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly
understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of
illustration and description only. As used in the specification and
the claims, the singular form of "a", "an", and "the" include
plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0062] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a system including a
fluid injector and a syringe according to an aspect of the present
disclosure;
[0063] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a syringe according
to one aspect of the present disclosure;
[0064] FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of a plunger according to
one aspect of the present disclosure;
[0065] FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of the plunger shown in
FIG. 3A;
[0066] FIG. 3C is a bottom view of the plunger shown in FIG.
3A;
[0067] FIG. 3D is a side view of the plunger shown in FIG. 3A;
[0068] FIG. 3E is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger shown
in FIG. 3A;
[0069] FIG. 5A is a side view of a plunger and a piston in an
assembled state;
[0070] FIG. 5B is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
the piston during initial engagement of the piston with the
plunger;
[0071] FIG. 5C is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
the piston prior to full engagement of the piston with the
plunger;
[0072] FIG. 5D is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
the piston during full engagement of the piston with the
plunger;
[0073] FIG. 6A is a top perspective view of a plunger according to
another aspect of the present disclosure;
[0074] FIG. 6B is a bottom perspective view of the plunger shown in
FIG. 6A;
[0075] FIG. 7A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the plunger
shown in FIGS. 6A-6B and a piston prior to initial engagement of
the piston with the plunger;
[0076] FIG. 7B is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
piston shown in FIG. 7A;
[0077] FIG. 8A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the plunger
and the piston during initial engagement of the piston with the
plunger;
[0078] FIG. 8B is a side partial cross-sectional view of the
plunger and the piston shown in FIG. 8A;
[0079] FIG. 9A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the plunger
and the piston prior to full engagement of the piston with the
plunger;
[0080] FIG. 9B is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
piston shown in FIG. 9A;
[0081] FIG. 10A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the
plunger and the piston during full engagement of the piston with
the plunger;
[0082] FIG. 10B is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
piston shown in FIG. 10A;
[0083] FIG. 11A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the
plunger and the piston during initial disengagement as the plunger
is rotated relative to the piston;
[0084] FIG. 11B is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
piston shown in FIG. 11A;
[0085] FIG. 12A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the
plunger and the piston during disengagement with a locking ring of
the piston in a forward position;
[0086] FIG. 12B is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
the piston shown in FIG. 12A.
[0087] FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of a first adapter
configured for connecting a non-compatible plunger with a
piston;
[0088] FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view of a second adapter
configured for connecting a plunger with a non-compatible
piston;
[0089] FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of a piston in
accordance with another aspect;
[0090] FIG. 15B is an exploded perspective view of the piston shown
in FIG. 15A;
[0091] FIG. 15C is a side view of the piston head shown in FIG.
15A;
[0092] FIG. 15C is front perspective view of the piston shown in
FIG. 15A and a plunger removed from the piston;
[0093] FIG. 15D is a front perspective of the piston and plunger
shown in FIG. 15C with the plunger assembled on the piston;
[0094] FIG. 15E is a side cross-sectional view of the plunger and
the piston shown in FIG. 15D;
[0095] FIG. 15F is an exploded perspective view of the piston shown
in FIG. 15A;
[0096] FIG. 15G is a bottom perspective view of a plunger in
accordance with another aspect;
[0097] FIG. 16 is a cylindrical plan projection view of the piston
and the plunger shown in FIG. 15C;
[0098] FIG. 17 is a cylindrical plan projection view of a piston
and a plunger in accordance with another aspect;
[0099] FIG. 18 is a cylindrical plan projection view of a piston
and a plunger in accordance with another aspect;
[0100] FIG. 19 is a cylindrical plan projection view of a piston
and a plunger in accordance with another aspect;
[0101] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a piston in
accordance with another aspect;
[0102] FIG. 21A is a front perspective view of a piston and a
plunger in accordance with another aspect;
[0103] FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional side view of FIG. 21A showing
the engagement between the piston and the plunger;
[0104] FIG. 21C is a cross-sectional top view of FIG. 21A showing
the engagement between the piston and the plunger;
[0105] FIG. 22A is a front perspective view of a plunger in
accordance with another aspect;
[0106] FIG. 22B is a bottom perspective view of the plunger shown
in FIG. 22A;
[0107] FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional side view of the plunger
illustrated in FIG. 22A showing the engagement between a piston and
the plunger;
[0108] FIG. 22D is a cross-sectional top view of the plunger
illustrated in FIG. 22A showing the engagement between a piston and
the plunger;
[0109] FIG. 23A is a front perspective view of a plunger in
accordance with another aspect;
[0110] FIG. 23B is a first cross-sectional side view of the plunger
illustrated in FIG. 23A showing the engagement between a piston and
the plunger;
[0111] FIG. 23C is a second cross-sectional side view of the
plunger illustrated in FIG. 23A showing the engagement between the
piston and the plunger;
[0112] FIG. 23D is a cross-sectional top view of the plunger
illustrated in FIG. 23A showing the engagement between a piston and
the plunger;
[0113] FIG. 24A is a partially-transparent side view of a piston
and a plunger in accordance with another aspect;
[0114] FIG. 24B is a partially-transparent side view of a piston
and a plunger in accordance with another aspect; and
[0115] FIG. 24C is a partially-transparent side view of a piston
and a plunger in accordance with another aspect;
[0116] FIG. 25 is an exploded front view of a system including a
fluid injector and a pair of pressure jackets in accordance with
another aspect of the present disclosure;
[0117] FIG. 26 is an exploded front view of a pair of pressure
jackets in accordance with another aspect; and
[0118] FIG. 27 is an exploded front view of a syringe assembly and
a pressure jacket in accordance with another aspect.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0119] For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms
"upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top",
"bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal", and derivatives thereof shall
relate to the components as they are oriented in the drawing
figures. When used in relation to a syringe and/or a plunger, the
term "proximal" refers to a portion of a syringe and/or a plunger
nearest a fluid injector when a syringe and/or a plunger is
oriented for connecting to a fluid injector. The term "distal"
refers to a portion of a syringe and/or a plunger farthest away
from a fluid injector when a syringe and/or a plunger is oriented
for connecting to a fluid injector. The term "radial" refers to a
direction in a cross-sectional plane normal to a longitudinal axis
of a syringe, a plunger, and/or a piston extending between proximal
and distal ends. The term "circumferential" refers to a direction
around an inner or outer surface of a sidewall of a syringe, a
plunger, and/or a piston. The term "axial" refers to a direction
along a longitudinal axis of a syringe, a piston, and/or a piston
extending between the proximal and distal ends. The term
"self-orienting" means that a piston head or a plunger orients
itself to a correct orientation relative to a plunger or piston
head without a rotational effort by a technician or a fluid
injector. It is to be understood, however, that the disclosure may
assume alternative variations and step sequences, except where
expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood
that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached
drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply
exemplary aspects of the disclosure. Hence, specific dimensions and
other physical characteristics related to the aspects disclosed
herein are not to be considered as limiting.
[0120] Referring to the drawings in which like reference characters
refer to like parts throughout the several views thereof, the
present disclosure is generally directed to syringe plunger and a
connection interface for connecting the syringe plunger to a piston
of a fluid injector. Various aspects are directed to syringe
plungers that may be connected to and disconnected from the piston.
In various aspects, such plungers may be manually, hydraulically,
or electrically activated. Furthermore, the present disclosure
provides a quick and easy solution for engaging and disengaging the
syringe plunger to and from the piston without a specific
orientation of the plunger relative to the piston. For example, the
piston may be advanced forward until it engages with the plunger,
regardless of orientation of the piston relative to the plunger
along a longitudinal axis of the syringe, as will be described in
greater detail herein. In addition, a simple angular rotation of
the plunger relative to the piston at any orientation may allow for
detachment of the two elements.
[0121] With reference to FIG. 1, a fluid injector 10 (hereinafter
referred to as "injector 10"), such as an automated or powered
fluid injector, is adapted to interface with and actuate at least
one syringe 12, each of which may be independently filled with a
medical fluid F, such as contrast media, saline solution, or any
desired medical fluid. The injector 10 may be used during a medical
procedure to inject the medical fluid into the body of a patient by
driving a plunger 26 of the at least one syringe 12 with at least
one piston. The injector 10 may be a multi-syringe injector,
wherein several syringes 12 may be oriented in a side-by-side or
other arrangement and include plungers 26 separately actuated by
respective pistons associated with the injector 10. In aspects with
two syringes arranged in a side-by-side relationship and filled
with two different medical fluids, the injector 10 may deliver
fluid from one or both of the syringes 12.
[0122] The injector 10 may be enclosed within a housing 14 formed
from a suitable structural material, such as plastic or metal. The
housing 14 may be of various shapes and sizes depending on the
desired application. For example, the injector 10 may be a
free-standing structure configured to be placed on the floor with a
stationary or movable platform. Alternatively, the injector 10 may
be configured for placement on a suitable table or support frame.
The injector 10 includes at least one syringe port 16 for
connecting the at least one syringe 12 to respective piston
elements. As will be described hereinafter, in some aspects, the at
least one syringe 12 includes at least one syringe retaining member
for retaining the syringe 12 within the syringe port 16 of the
injector 10. The at least one syringe retaining member operatively
engages a locking mechanism provided on or in the syringe port 16
of the injector 10 to facilitate self-oriented loading and/or
removal of the syringe 12 to and from the injector 10, as will be
described herein. The syringe retaining member and the locking
mechanism together define a connection interface for connecting the
syringe 12 to the injector 10.
[0123] At least one fluid path set 17 may be fluidly connected with
the at least one syringe 12 for delivering medical fluid F from the
at least one syringe 12 to a catheter, needle, or other fluid
delivery device (not shown) inserted into a patient at a vascular
access site. Fluid flow from the at least one syringe 12 may be
regulated by a fluid control module (not shown). The fluid control
module may operate various, pistons, valves, and/or flow regulating
structures to regulate the delivery of the medical fluid, such as
saline solution and contrast, to the patient based on user selected
injection parameters, such as injection flow rate, duration, total
injection volume, and/or ratio of contrast media and saline. One
example of a suitable front-loading fluid injector that may be
modified for use with the above-described system including at least
one syringe and at least one syringe interface for self-oriented
loading and releasable retaining of the at least one syringe with
the fluid injector described herein with reference to FIG. 1 is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,383,858 to Reilly et al., which is
incorporated by reference in its entirety. Another example of
relevant multi-fluid delivery systems that may be modified for use
with the present system are found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,553,294 to
Lazzaro et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,666,169 to Cowan et al.;
International Patent Publication No. WO 2012/155035; and United
States Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0027009 to Riley et
al.; the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Other aspects may include new fluid injector systems designed to
include various aspects of the interface described herein.
[0124] Having described the general structure and function of the
injector 10, the at least one syringe 12 will now by discussed in
greater detail. With reference to FIG. 2, the syringe 12 generally
has a cylindrical syringe barrel 18 formed from glass, metal, or a
suitable medical-grade plastic. The barrel 18 has a proximal end 20
and a distal end 24, with a sidewall 19 extending therebetween
along a length of a syringe longitudinal axis 15 extending through
a center of the barrel 18. The barrel 18 may be made from a
transparent or translucent material, and may include at least one
fluid verification member 11 for verifying a presence of the fluid
F within the syringe barrel 18. A nozzle 22 extends from the distal
end 24 of the barrel 18. The barrel 18 has an outer surface 21 and
an inner surface or wall 23 that defines an interior volume 25 for
receiving the fluid therein. The proximal end 20 of the barrel 18
may be sealed with the plunger 26 that is slidable through the
barrel 18. The plunger 26 forms a liquid-tight seal against the
inner surface 23 of sidewall 19 of the barrel 18 as it is advanced
therethrough.
[0125] A drip flange 35 may extend radially outwardly from the
outer surface 21 of the syringe barrel 18 relative to the
longitudinal axis 15. The drip flange 35 may extend around at least
a portion of the outer circumference of the barrel 18. The drip
flange 35 may prevent fluid that drips from the nozzle 22 from
entering the syringe port 16 on the injector 10. In this manner,
the drip flange 35 helps reduce the amount of fluid that may enter
the syringe port 16 and jam or otherwise interfere with the
connection interface and/or the interior mechanics and electronics
of the injector 10. In some aspects, the drip flange 35 defines a
stop surface that delimits the depth at which an insertion section
30 of the syringe 12 may be inserted into the syringe port 16
(shown in FIG. 1). The drip flange 35 may be formed integrally with
the barrel 18 or it may be affixed or otherwise secured to the
outer surface 21 of the barrel 18 using, for example, a frictional
fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by molding. In other aspects,
the drip flange 35 may be formed on the outer surface 21 of the
barrel 18 by etching, laser cutting, or machining.
[0126] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the proximal end 20 of
the syringe 12 is sized and adapted for being removably inserted in
the syringe port 16 of the injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1). In some
aspects, the proximal end 20 of the syringe 12 defines the
insertion section 30 that is removably inserteable into the syringe
port 16 of the injector 10 while the remaining portion of the
syringe 12 remains outside of the syringe port 16. In certain
aspects, the proximal end 20 of the syringe 12 includes one or more
syringe retaining members (not shown) adapted to form a locking
engagement with a corresponding locking mechanism in the syringe
port 16 of the injector 10 for releasably retaining the syringe 12
in the syringe port 16. Various retaining members for releasably
locking the syringe 12 with the injector 10 are described in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/526,294, filed on Oct. 28, 2014 and
entitled "Self-Orienting Syringe and Syringe Interface", and U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/526,395, filed on Oct. 28, 2014 and
entitled "Self-Orienting Syringe and Syringe Interface", the
disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
[0127] Exemplary syringes suitable for use with the injector 10
depicted in FIG. 1 and which can be adopted for use with a fluid
verification system are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,383,858 to
Reilly et al., which is assigned to the assignee of the present
application, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference
in its entirety. Additional exemplary syringes are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,535 to Hitchins et al. and U.S. Pat. No.
6,652,489 to Trocki et al., each of which are assigned to the
assignee of the present application, and the disclosures of which
are both incorporated by reference in their entireties.
[0128] With reference to FIGS. 3A-3B, the plunger 26 is shown in
accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. The barrel 18
of the syringe 12 is omitted from FIGS. 3A-3B for clarity. The
plunger 26 includes a plunger body 32 defining a plunger
longitudinal axis 34 and having a proximal end 36, a distal end 38,
and a circumferential sidewall 39 connecting the proximal end 36
and the distal end 38. The sidewall 39 may have a uniform or
non-uniform thickness between the proximal end 36 and the distal
end 38. The sidewall 39 may have a continuous outer surface. In
some aspects, the sidewall 39 may have a discontinuous outer
surface having one or more portions of sidewall 39 separated by one
or more voids. The plunger body 32 may be formed from glass, metal,
plastic, or other suitable material.
[0129] With continued reference to FIGS. 3A-3B, the plunger body 32
has an interior cavity 40 defined by a conical-shaped portion 42 at
the distal end 38 of the plunger body 32 and a cylindrical-shaped
portion 44 at the proximal end 36 of the plunger body 32. The
conical-shaped portion 42 may be monolithically formed with the
cylindrical-shaped portion 44. In some aspects, the conical-shaped
portion 42 may be affixed or otherwise secured to the
cylindrical-shaped portion 44 of the plunger body 32 using, for
example, a frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by
molding. The conical-shaped portion 42 may have a truncated end 46
that has a central opening 48. In some aspects, the distal end 38
of the plunger body 32 may be enclosed such that the plunger 26
does not have a central opening 48.
[0130] With reference to FIG. 3E, the plunger 26 may have a seal 58
that covers at least a portion of an outer surface 60 of the
plunger body 32. The seal 58 may be a flexible seal that engages an
inner surface of the syringe barrel 18 (shown in FIG. 2) such that
the seal 58 seals the interior volume 25 of the syringe barrel 18
in a liquid-tight manner. The seal 58 may be provided separately
from the plunger body 32, or it may be integrally formed with the
plunger body 32, such as by co-molding. In some aspects, the outer
surface 60 of the plunger body 32 may have a circumferential groove
62. At least a portion of seal 58 may be retained within the
circumferential groove 62. The exterior surface 64 of the seal 58
may have one or more lips, projections, or other sealing elements
66 that slidingly engage an inner surface of the syringe barrel 18.
In some aspects, at least the sealing elements 66 of the seal 58
may be made from an elastomeric material that resiliently engages
the inner surface 23 of the syringe barrel 18. The at least one
extension 56 on the plunger body 32 may prevent the seal 58 from
coming out of axial engagement with the syringe 12 as the plunger
26 is moved through the syringe barrel 18.
[0131] Referring again to FIGS. 3A-3B, the plunger 26 may have at
least one resiliently deflectable retaining member 68 (hereinafter
"retaining member 68") protruding from the plunger body 32. In some
aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may protrude in a
direction from the proximal end 36 toward the distal end 38 of the
plunger body 32. In some aspects, the at least one retaining member
68 may protrude distally and radially inward from an inner surface
52 of the interior cavity 40 of the plunger body 32.
[0132] With reference to FIG. 3E, the at least one retaining member
68 has a first end 70 connected to the plunger body 32 and a second
end 72 protruding distally from the first end 70. The second end 72
may deflect or twist relative to the first end 70. As described
herein, the second end 72 may be radially deflectable relative to
the first end 70 when the at least one retaining member 68 engages
a piston of the fluid injector 10. In some aspects, the second end
72 may be circumferentially deflectable relative to the first end
70. The first end 70 and the second end 72 may be spaced apart in a
direction that extends substantially along a direction of the
plunger longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger 26. The at least one
retaining member 68 may be linearly, stepwise, or curvilinearly
contiguous between the first end 70 and the second end 72. In some
aspects, one or more retaining members 68 may extend in a direction
parallel to a direction of the plunger longitudinal axis 34. In
other aspects, one or more retaining members 68 may extend in a
direction that is angled relative to the direction of the plunger
longitudinal axis 34. For example, one or more retaining member 68
may be angled at an angle A toward or away from inner surface 52 of
the plunger body 32. The inner surface 52 of the plunger body 32
may have one or more pockets 69 that are recessed in a radially
inward direction into the sidewall 39 to allow for an increased
deflection of the second end 72 relative to the first end 70 of the
at least one retaining member 68.
[0133] With reference to FIG. 3C, a plurality of retaining members
68 may spaced apart radially relative to the plunger longitudinal
axis 34 along a circumference of the inner surface 52 of the
interior cavity 40. The retaining members 68 may be separated from
each other by portions of the inner surface 52 of the interior
cavity 40. In aspects where two or more retaining members 68 are
provided, the retaining members 68 may be evenly spaced apart from
each other. In one exemplary and non-limiting aspect with three
retaining members 68 having equal angular separation therebetween,
such as shown in FIG. 3C, each retaining member 68 is separated by
120 degrees from the retaining members 68 adjacent on either side.
In some aspects, the retaining members 68 may have unequal angular
extension and/or unequal angular spacing between the retaining
members 68 about the inner surface 52 of the interior cavity 40.
The radial spacing of the at least one retaining member 68 relative
to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 is selected to correspond to or
operably interact with an outer shape of the piston, as described
herein.
[0134] With continued reference to FIG. 3E, the second end 72 of
the retaining member 68 has at least one catch 74. The at least one
catch 74 may be a terminal surface of the second end 72 of the
retaining member 68. As described herein, the at least one catch 74
is shaped to be received within at least a portion of a recess,
lip, or ledge on the piston to lock the at least one retaining
member 68, along with the plunger 26, relative to the piston. In
some aspects, the at least one catch 74 may protrude radially
inward or outward relative to a body of the retaining member 68.
The at least one catch 74 may be formed integrally with the second
end 72 of the at least one retaining member 68 or it may be affixed
or otherwise secured to the second end 72 of the at least one
retaining member 68 using, for example, a frictional fit and/or an
adhesive, welding, or by molding. In other aspects, the at least
one catch 74 may be formed on the second end 72 of the at least one
retaining member 68 by etching, laser cutting, or machining.
[0135] With reference to FIGS. 3A-3B, the plunger 26 may have at
least one first cam member 78. In some aspects, the first cam
member 78 may be provided directly on the retaining member 68, or
it may be provided on a portion of the plunger body 32 such that
activation of the cam member 78 causes a corresponding activation
of the retaining member 68. In some aspects, the at least one first
cam member 78 may be provided between the first end 70 and the
second end 72 of the retaining member 68. The at least one first
cam member 78 interacts with a piston of the fluid injector 10
(shown in FIG. 1) to radially deflect the at least one retaining
member 68 upon rotation of the plunger 26 relative to the piston,
as described herein. In some aspects, the position of the at least
one first cam member 78 may be selected to allow for an increased
radial deflection of the at least one first cam member 78 upon
relative rotation between the plunger 26 and the piston. In such
aspects, the at least one first cam member 78 may be provided
closer to the second end 72 of the retaining member 68.
[0136] In some aspects, the at least one first cam member 78 may
protrude at an angle relative to a plane defined by a body of the
retaining member 68. With reference to FIG. 3C, the at least one
first cam member 78 may be angled at an angle B relative to the
plane defined by the body of the retaining member 68. The at least
one first cam member 78 may have an angled engagement surface 79
that interacts with the piston to disengage the plunger 26 from the
piston, as described herein. The position of the at least one first
cam member 78 between the first end 70 and the second end 72 of the
retaining member 68 minimizes the radial protrusion of the at least
one first cam member 72 while still allowing a full radial
deflection of the at least one retaining member 68 upon rotation of
the plunger 26 relative to the piston 88, as described herein. In
some aspects, the at least one first cam member 78 may be provided
on at least a portion of the at least one catch 74. A plurality of
first cam members 78 may be axially spaced apart along a length of
the retaining member 68 between the first end 70 and the second end
72. The at least one first cam member 78 may be formed integrally
with the at least one retaining member 68 or it may be affixed or
otherwise secured to the at least one retaining member 68 using,
for example, a frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by
molding. In other aspects, the at least one first cam member 78 may
be formed on the at least one retaining member 68 by etching, laser
cutting, or machining.
[0137] With reference to FIG. 3A, the plunger 26 may have at least
one first alignment member 71 protruding from the plunger body 32.
In some aspects, the at least one first alignment member 71 may
protrude in a direction from the distal end 38 toward the proximal
end 36 of the plunger body 32. In some aspects, the at least one
first alignment member 71 may protrude proximally from the inner
surface 52 of the interior cavity 40 of the plunger body 32.
[0138] With reference to FIG. 3E, the at least one first alignment
member 71 has a first end 73 connected to the plunger body 32 and a
second end 75 protruding proximally from the first end 73. The at
least one first alignment member 71 is shaped and/or configured for
facilitating self-orienting alignment of the plunger 26 with the
piston 88. In some aspects, at least a portion of the at least one
first alignment member 71 may extend in a direction that is angled
relative to the direction of the plunger longitudinal axis 34. For
example, at least one first alignment member 71 may have a proximal
alignment surface 77a that is angled at an angle C relative to the
longitudinal axis 34 to facilitate positioning of the retaining
member 68 during connection of the plunger 26 to a piston. The at
least one first alignment member 71 may have a distal alignment
surface 77b that is angled in a direction opposite to the proximal
alignment surface 77a to facilitate positioning of the retaining
member 68 when the plunger 26 is being disconnected from the
piston. The proximal alignment surface 77a helps guide the plunger
26 into self-orienting alignment with the piston, as described
herein.
[0139] With reference to FIG. 3C, a plurality of first alignment
members 71 may be spaced apart radially relative to the plunger
longitudinal axis 34 along a circumference of the inner surface 52
of the interior cavity 40. In some aspects, the number of first
alignment members 71 may be equal or unequal to the number of
retaining members 68. When equal in number, the first alignment
members 71 may be disposed between the retaining members 68 such
that each first alignment member 71 has a retaining member 68 on
either side of the first alignment member 71. The first alignment
members 71 may be separated from each other by portions of the
inner surface 52 of the interior cavity 40. In aspects where two or
more first alignment members 71 are provided, the first alignment
members 71 may be evenly spaced apart from each other. In one
exemplary and non-limiting aspect with first alignment members 71
having equal angular separation therebetween, such as shown in FIG.
3C, each first alignment member 71 is separated by 120 degrees from
the first alignment members 71 adjacent on either side. In some
aspects, the first alignment members 71 may have unequal angular
extension and/or unequal angular spacing between the first
alignment members 71 about the inner surface 52 of the interior
cavity 40. The radial spacing of the at least one first alignment
member 71 relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 is selected
to correspond to or operably interact with an outer shape of the
piston to allow for alignment of the piston with the plunger 26, as
described herein.
[0140] Referring to FIG. 4A, a piston 88 is configured to interact
with the plunger 26 (shown in FIG. 3A) to releasably lock the
plunger 26 such that the plunger 26 can be driven reciprocally
within the barrel of the syringe 12 (shown in FIG. 2). The piston
88 is extendible and retractable from the housing 14 of the fluid
injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1) via a powered means (not shown)
preferably contained within housing 14. The powered means may
include, for example, an electric motor, hydraulic system, or a
pneumatic system, including appropriate gearing (not shown). As
known in the art, the fluid injector 10 also may include a
controller (not shown) for controlling operation of the powered
means and thereby controlling operation of the piston 88.
[0141] With continued reference to FIG. 4A, the piston 88 includes
a stem 90 and a piston head 92 formed on a distal end of the stem
90. At least a portion of the piston head 92 extends distally the
stem 90. The piston 88 is construed from a rigid material, such as
metal or plastic that resists deformation. The stem 90 may have a
cavity 91 for collecting any fluid that may drip from the syringe.
The piston head 92 has a substantially cylindrical structure with a
pointed distal end 94 with a cap 95 that is shaped to be received
inside at least a portion of the interior cavity 40 (shown in FIG.
3A) of the plunger 26. In some aspects, a sensing member 79, such
as a pin connected to a sensor, may be provided. The sensing member
79 may extend along a longitudinal axis of the piston 88 and may
protrude through at least a portion of the piston head 92, such as
through at least a portion of the cap 95. The sensing member 79 may
be operative for sensing contact with a surface, such as a surface
of the plunger 26, and control a movement of the piston 88 based on
the sensed condition. For example, an initial contact between the
sensing member 79 and the plunger 26 may cause the pin to be moved
in a proximal direction such that it makes contact with the sensor.
The sensing member 79 may be biased in an extended position by a
resilient element 81 (shown in FIG. 4B), such as a spring. The
sensor may be connected to the controller of the injector such
that, upon activation of the sensor by the pin, the controller
controls the movement of the drive mechanism. For example, the
drive mechanism may be stopped or slowed from a first rate to a
second, slower rate.
[0142] The piston head 92 may be rotatable relative to the stem 90.
In some aspects, the piston head 92 may be rotatable in one
direction only, such as a clockwise or a counterclockwise
direction, relative to the stem 90. A one-way rotation mechanism
99, such as a one-way clutch mechanism, may be provided to allow
the rotation of the piston head 92 in a first direction only, such
as the clockwise or the counterclockwise direction. The one-way
rotation mechanism 99 may be rotatable around a central shaft 101
having a seal 102, such as an O-ring seal. In some aspects, the
one-way rotation mechanism 99 may have a stop that prevents
rotation of the piston head 92 in a second direction opposite the
first direction, such as the counterclockwise or the clockwise
direction, respectively. In other aspects, the one-way rotation
mechanism 99 may be provided on at least a portion of the plunger
26.
[0143] With reference to FIG. 4C, the piston head 92 has a proximal
portion 103 connected to a distal portion 105. Terminal ends of the
proximal and distal portions 103, 105 may have a radiused edge 107.
At least a portion of the proximal portion 103 has a smaller outer
diameter compared to an outer diameter of the distal portion 105
such that a radial lip 109 is formed at a transition between the
proximal portion 103 and the distal portion 105. The radial lip 109
may be continuous or discontinuous around a circumference of the
piston head 92. In some aspects, the radial lip 109 defines a
locking ledge 111 for engaging the catch 74 of the at least one
retaining member 68 when the plunger 26 is fully seated on the
piston head 92.
[0144] With continued reference to FIG. 4C, the piston head 92 may
have at least one second alignment member 113 protruding radially
outward from an outer surface of the piston head 92. The at least
second alignment member 113 is shaped and/or configured for
interacting with the first alignment member 71 of the plunger 26
the facilitating alignment of the piston 88 with the plunger 26 in
order to allow for a releasable locking connection of the plunger
26 with the piston 88. In some aspects, at least a portion of the
at least second alignment member 113 may extend in a direction that
is angled relative to the direction of a piston longitudinal axis
115. For example, at least second alignment member 113 may have a
guiding surface 117 that is angled at an angle D relative to the
piston longitudinal axis 115. The guiding surface 117 is desirably
angled such that the piston head 92 may rotate around the piston
stem 90 when the proximal alignment surface 77a of the first
alignment member 71 contacts the guiding surface 117 of the second
alignment member 113.
[0145] In some aspects, a plurality of second alignment member 113
may be spaced apart radially relative to the piston longitudinal
axis 115 along an outer circumference of the piston head 92. In
some aspects, the number of second alignment member 113 may be
equal to a total number of retaining members 68 and first alignment
members 71 on the plunger 26. The second alignment member 113 are
spaced apart circumferentially such that a retaining member 68 or a
first alignment member 71 may be received between adjacent second
alignment members 113. The second alignment members 113 may be
separated from each other by portions of an outer surface of the
proximal portion 103 and/or the distal portion 105 of the piston
head 92. In aspects where two or more second alignment members 113
are provided, the second alignment members 113 may be evenly spaced
apart from each other. In one exemplary and non-limiting aspect
with second alignment members 113 having equal angular separation
therebetween, such as shown in FIG. 4A, each second alignment
member 113 is separated by 60 degrees from the second alignment
members 113 adjacent on either side. In some aspects, the second
alignment members 113 may have unequal angular extension and/or
unequal angular spacing between the second alignment members 113
about the outer surface of the proximal portion 103 and/or the
distal portion 105 of the piston head 92. The radial spacing of the
at least one second alignment members 113 relative to the piston
longitudinal axis 115 is selected to correspond to or operably
interact with an inner shape of the plunger 26 to allow the
retaining members 68 and the first alignment members 71 to be
received between adjacent second alignment members 113, as
described herein.
[0146] Each of the guiding surfaces 117 of the second alignment
members 113 define a travel path for guiding the movement of the
proximal alignment surface 77a of the first alignment member 71 in
and out of a recess 119 defined between adjacent second alignment
members 113. The guiding surfaces 62 and 65 may be inclined or
angled radially and axially relative to the piston longitudinal
axis 115 to guide the movement of the proximal alignment surfaces
77a. The guiding surfaces 117 aid in self-orienting the piston head
92 as the plunger 26 is brought into contact with the piston 88 by
guiding the one or more proximal alignment surfaces 77a on the
plunger 26 into the corresponding recess 119 on the piston head 92.
In this manner, a piston 88 whose piston longitudinal axis 115 is
rotationally misaligned with the plunger longitudinal axis 34 and
the one or more first alignment member 71 which are initially
misaligned relative to the corresponding one or more second
alignment members 77a in a rotational direction are brought in
alignment axially and rotationally such that the one or more first
alignment members 71 are received within the recess 119 between
adjacent second alignment members 113.
[0147] The one or more second alignment members 113 may have a
bottom surface 121 that is angled relative to the direction of a
piston longitudinal axis 115. For example, the bottom surface 121
may be angled at an angle E relative to the piston longitudinal
axis 115. Angle E may be the same or different than angle E of the
guiding surface 117.
[0148] The piston head 92 further has a second cam member 98. In
some aspects, the second cam member 98 cooperates with the first
cam member 78 on the at least one retaining member 68 of the
plunger 26, as described herein. The second cam member 98 desirably
has a shape that, upon relative rotation between the piston 88 and
the plunger 26, engages the first cam member 78 to cause the at
least one retaining member 68 to be deflected from the piston head
92 such that the plunger 26 can be removed from the piston 88. In
some aspects, the second cam member 98 may be formed on the second
alignment member 113 on the piston head 92. The second cam member
98 may be a surface that is aligned with a direction of the piston
longitudinal axis 115. The second cam member 98 may have a
chamfered portion 98a to facilitate passing of the first cam member
78 after the retaining member 68 is deflected sufficiently to allow
the retaining member to be released.
[0149] The piston 88 is configured to interact with the plunger 26
to releasably lock with plunger 26, such as shown in FIG. 3A. By
locking the piston 88 to the plunger 26, the plunger 26 can be
driven reciprocally within the barrel of the syringe 12 (shown in
FIG. 2). The second cam member 98 on the piston 88 cooperates with
the first cam member 78 on the at least one retaining member 68 of
the plunger 26, to releasably lock the plunger 26 to the piston 88.
The locking or engagement of the plunger 26 to the piston 88, and
the unlocking or disengagement of the plunger 26 from the piston 88
will be described herein with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C. The syringe
12, shown initially in phantom in FIG. 5A is omitted from the
remainder of FIGS. 5B-5D for clarity.
[0150] To engage the plunger 26 with the piston 88, the syringe 12
is first inserted into the syringe port 16 of the fluid injector 10
(shown in FIG. 1). Once the syringe 12 is inserted into the syringe
port 16, various locking mechanisms (not shown) may be used to
retain the syringe 12 within the syringe port 16 to prevent
detachment of the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16. Initially,
the plunger 26 may be positioned at the proximal end 20 of the
syringe barrel 18. In some aspects, the plunger 26 is positioned at
any axial location between the proximal end 20 and the distal end
24 of the syringe barrel 18. The piston 88 may then be advanced
distally toward the plunger 26 for engagement of the piston head 92
with the plunger 26. In some aspects, the piston 88 may be advanced
distally toward the plunger 26 by way of the powered means operated
by a controller. In other aspects, the piston 88 may be advanced
distally toward the plunger 26 by manual operation.
[0151] With reference to FIG. 5B, the piston 88 is advanced axially
in a distal direction shown by the arrow A. If the piston 88 is
rotationally misaligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the
first alignment members 71 on the plunger 26 are not in rotational
alignment to be received within the recesses 119 (shown in FIG. 4C)
on the plunger head 92, the proximal alignment surface 77a of the
first alignment member 71 on the plunger 26 contacts the guiding
surface 117 of the second alignment member 113 on the piston head
92. The proximal alignment surface 77a and the guiding surface 117
are angled in a same direction relative to the longitudinal axes
34, 115 such that continued movement of the piston 88 in a distal
direction causes the proximal alignment surface 77a to engage the
guiding surface 117. Engagement of the proximal alignment surface
77a with the guiding surface 117 causes the piston head 92 to
automatically rotate in a free rotation direction of the one-way
rotation mechanism 99. Such rotation of the piston head 92 aligns
the first alignment members 71 and the retaining members 68 to be
received within the recesses 119 between adjacent second alignment
members 113. In this manner, the piston 88 self-orients itself
relative to the plunger 26 such that the plunger 26 may be
releasably locked with the piston 88. If the piston 88 is
rotationally aligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the first
alignment members 71 on the plunger 26 are in rotational alignment
second alignment members 113 on the plunger head 92, the first
alignment members 71 and the retaining members 68 on the plunger 26
can be received within the recesses 119 between adjacent second
alignment members 113 without rotation of the piston head 92.
[0152] With reference to FIG. 5C, after aligning the first
alignment members 71 and the retaining members 68 to be received
within the recess 119 between adjacent second alignment members
113, the piston 88 is advanced further in the distal direction.
Such movement of the piston 88 distal direction, causes the
retaining members 68 to initially engage an outer sidewall of the
distal portion 105 of the piston head 92. Continued distal movement
of the piston 92 causes the retaining members 68 to deflect
radially outward relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 from
a first, undeflected position, to a second, radially deflected
position. The piston 88 is advanced distally until the terminal
portion of the second end 72 clears the radial lip 109. The
retaining members 68 then deflect radially inward toward or to
their initial undeflected position. As shown in FIG. 5D, the catch
74 of at least one retaining member 68 is retained within the
locking ledge 111 to prevent disengagement of the plunger 26 from
the piston head 92. Distal movement of the piston 88 may be stopped
when the sensing member 79 engages at least a portion of the
plunger 26, such as the plunger cover 58 (shown in FIG. 3E). The
plunger 26 resists disconnection from the piston 88 upon movement
of piston 88 in a distal and proximal direction relative to the
syringe barrel 18. In one aspect, the retaining members 68 may be
designed such that the compressive forces exerted upon the catch 74
upon movement of piston head 92 in the proximal direction
substantially prevent radially outward deflection (or bending) of
the retaining members 68. For example, once the retaining members
68 are locked to the piston head 92, axial movement of the piston
88 does not introduce a bending moment sufficient to deflect the
retaining members 68 radially to cause the plunger 26 to be
disconnected from the piston 88. Proximal movement of the piston 88
causes the at least one retaining member 68 to be loaded in
compression between the first end 70 and the second end 72 such
that the retaining member 68 may be urged in a radially inward
direction, thereby increasing the locking force between the plunger
26 and the piston 88.
[0153] To unlock the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 and
disengage the plunger 26 from the piston 88, the syringe 12 is
rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about the syringe
longitudinal axis, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction,
relative to the syringe port 16. Because the plunger 26 is
substantially free from rotation within the syringe barrel 18, the
rotation of the syringe 12 also causes the plunger 26 to rotate
relative to the piston 88. The free-rotation direction of the
one-way rotation mechanism 99 is desirably opposite to the rotation
direction of the syringe 12 during the release of the syringe 12
from the syringe port 16. Rotation of the syringe 12, and thereby
the plunger 26, about the plunger longitudinal axis 34 engages the
first cam member 78 on the plunger 26 with the second cam member 98
on the piston head 92. Such movement causes a radial deflection of
the at least one retaining member 68 away from the piston head
92.
[0154] As the at least one retaining member 68 is deflected
radially outward relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34, the
catch 74 is moved out of engagement with the locking ledge 111. In
this position, the at least one retaining member 68 is in a
deflected state that allows the plunger 26 to be moved axially
relative to the piston 88. Such axial movement of the plunger 26
can be effected by withdrawing the syringe 12 from the syringe port
16 in a distal direction along the syringe longitudinal axis 15, by
withdrawing the piston 88 in a proximal direction away from the
plunger 26, or both. The plunger 26, together with the syringe 12,
can then be completely disengaged from the piston 88. In some
aspects, the piston 88 can be released from the plunger 26 by
rotating the piston 88 about its longitudinal axis and retracting
the piston 88 in a proximal direction to disengage the at least one
retaining member 68 in a manner described herein.
[0155] With reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, a plunger 26 and a piston 88
are shown in accordance with another aspect of the present
disclosure. The components of the plunger 26 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B
are substantially similar to the components of the plunger 26
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C. Reference numerals
in FIGS. 6A-6B are used to illustrate identical components of the
corresponding reference numerals in FIGS. 3A-3C. As the previous
discussion regarding the plunger 26 generally shown in FIGS. 3A-3C
is applicable to the aspect of the present disclosure shown in
FIGS. 6A-6B, only the relative differences between the plunger 26
and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 3A-4C and the plunger 26 and
piston 88 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B are discussed hereinafter.
[0156] With reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, a plunger 260 is shown in
accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. The
barrel 18 of the syringe 12 is omitted from FIGS. 6A-6B for
clarity. The plunger 260 includes a plunger body 320 defining a
plunger longitudinal axis 340 and having a proximal end 360, a
distal end 380, and a circumferential sidewall 390 connecting the
proximal end 360 and the distal end 380. The sidewall 390 may have
a uniform or non-uniform thickness between the proximal end 360 and
the distal end 380. The plunger body 320 may be formed from glass,
metal, or a suitable medical-grade plastic.
[0157] With continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, the plunger body
320 has an interior cavity 400 with a conical-shaped portion 420 at
the distal end 380 of the plunger body 320 and a cylindrical-shaped
portion 440 at the proximal end 360 of the plunger body 320. The
conical-shaped portion 420 may be monolithically formed with the
cylindrical-shaped portion 440. In some aspects, the conical-shaped
portion 420 may be affixed or otherwise secured to the
cylindrical-shaped portion 440 of the plunger body 320 using, for
example, a frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by
molding. The conical-shaped portion 420 may have a truncated end
460 that has a central opening 480. In some aspects, the distal end
380 of the plunger body 320 may be enclosed. In some aspects, the
plunger 260 may have a seal, such as the seal 58 shown in FIG. 2,
configured for covering an outer surface of the plunger body
320.
[0158] With continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, the plunger 260 may
have at least one resiliently deflectable retaining member 680
(hereinafter "retaining member 680") protruding from the plunger
body 320 in a distal direction. In some aspects, the at least one
retaining member 680 may protrude distally and radially inward from
an inner surface 520 of the interior cavity 400 of the plunger body
320. The at least one retaining member 680 has a first end 700
connected to the plunger body 320 and a second end 720 radially
deflectable relative to the first end 700. As described herein, the
second end 720 may be radially deflectable relative to the first
end 700 when the at least one retaining member 680 engages a piston
of the fluid injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1). The first end 700 and
the second end 720 may be spaced apart in a direction that extends
substantially along a direction of the plunger longitudinal axis
340 of the plunger 260. The at least one retaining member 680 may
be linearly or curvilinearly contiguous between the first end 700
and the second end 720.
[0159] In some aspects, a plurality of retaining members 680 is
spaced apart radially from the plunger longitudinal axis 340 along
a circumference of the inner surface 520 of the interior cavity
400. In such aspects, the retaining members 680 are separated from
each other by portions of the inner surface 520 of the interior
cavity 400. In aspects where more than one retaining member 680 is
provided, the retaining members 680 may be evenly spaced apart from
each other. In one exemplary and non-limiting aspect with three
retaining members 680 having equal angular separation therebetween,
such as shown in FIG. 3B, each retaining member 680 is separated by
120 degrees from the retaining members 680 adjacent on either side.
In some aspects, the retaining members 680 may have unequal angular
extension and/or unequal angular spacing between the retaining
members 680 about the inner surface 520 of the interior cavity 400.
The radial spacing of the at least one retaining member 680
relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 340 is selected to
correspond to an outer circumference of the piston, as described
herein.
[0160] In some aspects, one or more retaining members 680 may be
parallel with the longitudinal axis 340. In other aspects, one or
more retaining members 680 may be angled relative to the
longitudinal axis 340. For example, one or more retaining members
680 may be angled toward the longitudinal axis 340 in a direction
from the first end 700 toward the second end 720.
[0161] With continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, the second end 720
of the retaining member 680 has at least one catch 740. The at
least one catch 740 may be a terminal surface of the second end 720
of the retaining member 680. In some aspects, the at least one
catch 740 may protrude radially from the retaining member 680. For
example, the at least one catch 740 may protrude radially inward
toward the plunger longitudinal axis 340 of the plunger body 320,
or radially outward away from the plunger longitudinal axis 340. As
described herein, the at least one catch 740 is shaped to engage at
least a portion of a recess on the piston to lock the at least one
retaining member 680 relative to the piston. The at least one catch
740 may be formed integrally with the second end 720 of the at
least one retaining member 680 or it may be affixed or otherwise
secured to the second end 720 of the at least one retaining member
680 using, for example, a frictional fit and/or an adhesive,
welding, or by molding. In other aspects, the at least one catch
740 may be formed on the second end 720 of the at least one
retaining member 680 by etching, laser cutting, or machining.
[0162] With continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, the plunger 260 may
have at least one first cam member 780 disposed between the first
end 700 and the second end 720 of the retaining member 680. The at
least one first cam member 780 is configured to interact with a
piston of the fluid injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1) to radially
deflect the at least one retaining member 680 upon rotation of the
plunger 260 relative to the piston, as described herein. The
position of the at least one first cam member 780 between the first
end 700 and the second end 720 of the retaining member 680 allows
for a greater radial deflection of the at least one first cam
member 780 upon relative rotation between the plunger 260 and the
piston 880 (shown in FIGS. 7A-7B) compared to providing the at
least one first cam member 780 at the second end 720. The at least
one first cam member 780 may be parallel with a surface of the
retaining member 680. In some aspects, the at least one cam member
780 may be angled relative to a surface of the retaining member
680.
[0163] In some aspects, the at least one first cam member 780
protrudes radially inward toward the plunger longitudinal axis 340
of the plunger body 320. In other aspects, the at least one first
cam member 780 protrudes radially outward relative to the plunger
longitudinal axis 340 of the plunger body 320. The position of the
at least one first cam member 780 between the first end 700 and the
second end 720 of the retaining member 680 may minimize the radial
protrusion of the at least one first cam member 720 while still
allowing a full radial deflection of the at least one retaining
member 680 upon rotation of the plunger 260 relative to the piston
880, as described herein. In some aspects, the at least one first
cam member 780 may be provided on at least a portion of the at
least one catch 740. A plurality of first cam members 780 may be
axially spaced apart along a length of the retaining member 680
between the first end 700 and the second end 720. The at least one
first cam member 780 may be formed integrally with the at least one
retaining member 680 or it may be affixed or otherwise secured to
the at least one retaining member 680 using, for example, a
frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by molding. In other
aspects, the at least one first cam member 780 may be formed on the
at least one retaining member 680 by etching, laser cutting, or
machining.
[0164] The at least one first cam member 780 may have at least one
tooth 800 configured to engage a corresponding groove on the
piston. The at least one tooth 800 on the at least one first cam
member 780 is desirably shaped to correspond to the corresponding
groove on the piston. Each tooth 800 may have a peak 820 leading to
a groove 840 along a gear surface 860. The at least one tooth 800
on the at least one first cam member 780 may be a gear tooth having
a spur gear profile or a helical gear profile. While FIGS. 6A-6B
illustrate one non-limiting aspect of the at least one first cam
member 780, various other shapes are also contemplated. For
example, the at least one first cam member 780 of the at least one
retaining member 680 may have a generally circular, square,
rectangular, or any suitable polygonal shape. In each aspect, the
at least first cam member 780 is configured for engaging at least a
portion of the piston to cause the at least one retaining member
680 to be deflected from the piston upon rotation of the plunger
260 relative to the piston.
[0165] Referring to FIG. 7A, a piston 880 is extendible and
retractable from the housing 14 of the fluid injector 10 (shown in
FIG. 1) via a powered means (not shown) preferably contained within
housing 14. The powered means may include, for example, an electric
motor, hydraulic system, or a pneumatic system, including
appropriate gearing (not shown). As known in the art, the fluid
injector 10 also may include a controller for controlling operation
of the powered means and thereby controlling operation of the
piston 880.
[0166] With continued reference to FIG. 7A, the piston 880 includes
a stem 900 and a piston head 920 formed on a distal end of the stem
900. The piston 880 is construed from a relatively rigid material,
such as metal or plastic that resists deformation due to repeated
engagement with and disengagement from the plunger 260. The piston
head 920 has a substantially cylindrical structure with a pointed
distal end 940 that is configured to be received inside at least a
portion of the interior cavity 400 of the plunger 260. In some
aspects, a sensing member 1500, such as a spring-loaded pin
connected to a sensor, may be provided. The sensing member 1500 may
extend along a longitudinal axis of the piston 880 and may protrude
through at least a portion of the piston head 920. The sensing
member 1500 may be operative for sensing contact with a surface,
such as a surface of the plunger 260, and control a movement of the
piston 880 based on the sensed condition. For example, an initial
contact between the sensing member 1500 and the plunger 260 may
cause the pin to be retracted in a proximal direction such that it
makes contact with the sensor. The sensor may be connected to the
drive mechanism of the piston 880 such that, upon activation of the
sensor by the pin, the sensor controls the movement of the drive
mechanism. For example, the drive mechanism may be stopped or
slowed from a first rate to a second, slower rate.
[0167] The proximal end 960 of the piston head 920 has a second cam
member 980. In some aspects, the second cam member 980 is a gear
990 that extends around at least a portion of an outer
circumference of the piston head 920. The gear 990 may have a
plurality of peaks 1010 that are separated by grooves 1030 to
define a gear surface 1050. The gear surface 1050 desirably
corresponds to the gear surface 860 of the first cam member 780 of
the plunger 260 (shown in FIG. 6A). The second cam member 980 is
configured for cooperation with the first cam member 780 on the at
least one retaining member 680 of the plunger 260, as described
herein. The second cam member 980 desirably has a shape that, upon
relative rotation between the piston 880 and the plunger 260,
engages the first cam member 780 to cause the at least one
retaining member 680 to be deflected from the piston head 920 such
that the plunger 260 can be removed from the piston 880.
[0168] In some aspects, the second cam member 980 may be parallel
with the longitudinal axis 340. In other aspects, the second cam
member 980 may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis 340. For
example, the second cam member 980 may be angled toward the
longitudinal axis 340 at an angle corresponding to an angle of
inclination of the at least one retaining member 680. In various
aspects, regardless of the angular orientation of the at least one
retaining member 680, the first cam member 780 is desirably
parallel with the second cam member 980.
[0169] With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-7B, the piston 880 may
have a collar 950 surrounding at least a portion of the stem 900
and/or the piston head 920. The collar 950 may protrude radially
outward relative to an outer radial surface of the stem 900 and the
piston head 920 such that an annular space 970 is defined between
the piston 880 and the collar 950. The collar 950 may have an open
top end and a closed bottom end that is defined by a bottom
sidewall 1000 that connects the collar 950 to the stem 900 and/or
the piston head 920. The bottom sidewall 1000 defines a seat 1020
for a first end 1040 of a resiliently elastic member, such as a
spring 1060, that surrounds the stem 900. In other aspects, the
seat 1020 may be provided as a radial flange that protrudes from an
outer surface of the stem 900. The second end 1080 of the spring
1060 engages a proximal end of a movable capture ring 1100. The
capture ring 1100 has a substantially annular shape and surrounds
at least a portion of an outer circumference of the stem 900. In
some aspects, at least a portion of an outer diameter of the
capture ring 1100 may have a same or larger outer diameter than an
outer diameter of the piston head 920. The spring 1060 biases the
capture ring 1100 toward a first radial lip 1120 of the piston head
920. The capture ring 1100 is movable axially between a first
position, where the capture ring 1100 engages the first radial lip
1120 of the piston head 920, and a second position, where the
spring 1060 is compressed and the capture ring 1100 is deflected by
at least a portion of the at least one retaining member 680 toward
the bottom sidewall 1000 of the collar 950. In some aspects, the
capture ring 1100 may be movable between the first position and the
second position when urged by contact with, for example, the first
end 700 of the at least one retaining member 680. A stop member
(not shown) may be provided to limit the movement of the capture
ring 1100 to the second position. During disengagement of the
plunger 260 from the piston 880, the capture ring 1100 urges the at
least one retaining member 680 in a distal direction due to a
restoring force of the spring 1060. In some aspects, the capture
ring 1100 may have a grooved radial edge 1530 configured to engage
the first cam member 780 of the at least one retaining member
680.
[0170] With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-7B, the piston head 920
further defines a second radial lip 1510 at a distal end of the at
least one second cam member 980. When the plunger 260 is engaged
with the piston 880, the second radial lip 1510 acts as a retention
surface for the at least one catch 740 of the at least one
retaining member 680. The piston head 920 may further have guiding
grooves 1520 provided distally from the second radial lip 1510. In
some aspects, the guiding grooves 1520 may have a shape that
corresponds to the shape of the first cam member 780. In this
manner, the tooth 800 of the first cam member 780 may be guided
into the guiding groove 1520 as the plunger 260 and the piston head
920 are moved toward each other.
[0171] Having described the structure of the plunger 260 and the
piston 880 in accordance with one non-limiting aspect of the
present disclosure, the engagement and disengagement of the plunger
260 with and from the piston 880 will now be described with
reference to FIGS. 7A-12B. The syringe 12, shown initially in
phantom in FIG. 7A is omitted from the remainder of FIGS. 7B-12B
for clarity.
[0172] To engage the plunger 260 with the piston 880, the syringe
12 is first inserted into the syringe port 16 of the fluid injector
10, as described herein. Once the syringe 12 is inserted into the
syringe port 16, various locking mechanisms (not shown) may be used
to retain the syringe 12 within the syringe port 16 to prevent
detachment of the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16. Initially,
the plunger 260 may be positioned at the proximal end 20 of the
syringe barrel 18. In some aspects, the plunger 260 is positioned
at any axial location between the proximal end 20 and the distal
end 24 of the syringe barrel 18. The piston 880 may then be
advanced distally toward the plunger 260 for engagement of the
piston head 920 with the plunger 260. In some aspects, the piston
880 may be advanced distally toward the plunger 260 by way of the
powered means operated by a controller. In other aspects, the
piston 880 may be advanced distally toward the plunger 260 by
manual operation.
[0173] With reference to FIGS. 8A-8B, the piston 880 is advanced
axially in a distal direction such that the pointed distal end 940
of the piston head 920 contacts the at least one retaining member
680 of the plunger 260. Initially, at least a portion of the piston
head 920, such as the guiding grooves 1520, contacts the catch 740
of the at least one retaining member 680. Due to an angled
orientation of the at least one retaining member 680 relative to
the longitudinal axis, continued axial movement of the piston head
920 relative to the plunger 260 causes the at least one retaining
member 680 to be deflected radially outward due to the contact
between the at least one retaining member 680 and the outer surface
of the piston head 920. In an aspect having a plurality of
retaining members 680, each of the retaining members 680 may be
deflected radially outward relative to the piston head 920.
[0174] With reference to FIGS. 9A-9B, during continued axial
movement of the piston 880 in a distal direction, at least a
portion of the retaining member 680 engages the distal end of the
capture ring 1100. For example, the first end 720 and/or the first
cam member 780 of the retaining member 680 may engage the distal
end of the capture ring 1100. The contact between at least a
portion of the retaining member 680 and the distal end of the
capture ring 1100 urges the capture ring 1100 against the restoring
force of the spring 1060 and away from the first radial lip 1120 of
the piston head 920. During this movement, the first cam member 780
on the plunger 260 is brought in axial alignment with the second
cam member 980 on the piston head 920.
[0175] With reference to FIGS. 10A-10B, at least a portion of the
retaining member 680, such as the first end 720 and/or the first
cam member 780 of the retaining member 680, urges the capture ring
1100 against the restoring force of the spring 1060. The body of
the at least one retaining member 680 has an inherent restoring
force built up in the material of the at least one retaining member
680 when the at least one retaining member 680 is deflected from
its natural, undeflected state to a radially deflected state. Due
to this inherent restoring force created within the body of the at
least one retaining member 680 during a radial deflection of the at
least one retaining member 680, the second end 720 and/or the catch
740 is snapped radially into the second radial lip 1510. Such
radial movement of the second end 720 and/or the catch 740 also
engages the first cam member 780 on the plunger 260 with the second
cam member 980 on the piston head 920. Specifically, the peaks 820
of the first cam member 780 are received in the groove 103 of the
second cam member 980, and the groove 840 of the first cam member
780 receives the peaks 101 of the second cam member 980. In this
manner, the gear surface 860 of the first cam member 780 is engaged
with the gear surface 105 of the second cam member 980. The capture
ring 1100 maintains contact with at least portion of the retaining
member 680 to urge the second end 720 and/or the catch 740 into
contact with the second radial lip 1510. After retention of the
plunger 260 on the piston head 920 by the engagement of the second
end 720 and/or the catch 740 in the second radial lip 1510 of the
piston head 920, the plunger 260 resists disconnection from the
piston 880 upon movement of piston 880 in a distal and proximal
direction relative to the syringe barrel 18. In one aspect, the
second end 720 and/or the catch 740 may be designed such that the
compressive forces exerted upon the second end 720 and/or the catch
740 upon movement of piston 920 in the proximal direction
substantially prevents radially outward deflection (or bending) of
the catch 740. For example, once the catch 740 is engaged, axial
movement of the piston 880 does not introduce a bending moment
which may deflect the catch 740 radially to cause the plunger 260
to be disconnected from the piston 880.
[0176] To unlock the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 and
disengage the plunger 260 from the piston 880, the syringe 12 is
rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about the syringe
longitudinal axis, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction,
relative to the syringe port 16. Because the plunger 260 is
substantially free from rotation within the syringe barrel 18, the
rotation of the syringe 12 also causes the plunger 260 to rotate
relative to the piston 880. With reference to FIGS. 11A-11B,
rotation of the plunger 260 about its longitudinal axis 340 engages
the first cam member 780 on the plunger 260 with the second cam
member 980 on the piston head 920. In particular, rotational
movement of the plunger 260 causes the gear surface 860 of the
first cam member 780 to move along the gear surface 105 of the
second cam member 980 such that the peaks 820 of the first cam
member 780 are moved out of the grooves 101 of the second cam
member 980 and toward the peaks 101 of the second cam member 980.
Such movement causes a radial reflection of the at least one
retaining member 680 away from the piston head 920. The at least
one retaining member 680 is at its maximum radial deflection when
the peaks 820 of the first cam member 780 on the plunger 260 are
positioned over or aligned with the peaks 101 of the second cam
member 980 on the piston head 920.
[0177] As the at least one retaining member 680 is deflected
radially outward relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 340, the
second end 720 and/or the catch 740 is moved from the second radial
lip 1510 of the piston head 920. As the catch 740 moves out of its
engaged position, the capture ring 1100 is advanced in the distal
direction under the restoring force of the spring 1060. As shown in
FIGS. 12A-12B, the distal movement of the capture ring 1100 causes
the capture ring 1100 to urge the at least one retaining member 680
in the distal direction. In this position, the at least one
retaining member 680 is in a deflected state that allows the
plunger 260 to be moved axially relative to the piston 880. Such
axial movement of the plunger 260 can be effected by withdrawing
the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 in a distal direction along
the syringe longitudinal axis 15 or by withdrawing the piston 880
in a proximal direction away from the plunger 260. The plunger 260,
together with the syringe 12, can then be completely disengaged
from the piston 880. In some aspects, the piston 880 can be
released from the plunger 260 by rotating the piston 880 about its
longitudinal axis and retracting the piston 880 in a proximal
direction to disengage the at least one retaining member 680 in a
manner described herein.
[0178] With reference to FIG. 13, a first adapter 114 may connect
with a plunger P not having the at least one retaining member 68
described herein for removably engaging with the piston 88 of an
injector having the piston head 92 with the second cam member 98 in
accordance with one of the aspects described herein. In various
aspects, the first adapter 114 may be connect to the plunger P for
subsequent engagement with the piston 88. For example, the first
adapter 114 may be connected to the non-compatible plunger P
releasably or permanently. Such a first adapter 114 may have a
connection interface having at least one retaining member 68 with
the first cam member 78 in accordance with various aspects
described herein. The first adapter 114 may releasably connect with
an injector having the piston 88 described herein. The first
adapter 114 and the plunger P may be connected prior to connecting
to the piston 88, or the first adapter 114 may be connected to the
piston 88 before the plunger P is connected to the first adapter
114. The first adapter 114 and plunger P may be removed from the
piston 88 after use, with the first adapter 114 being disposed of
with the plunger P, or being removed from the used plunger P and
saved for subsequent use with a different plunger P.
[0179] In one aspect, a first portion 116 of the first adapter 114
may permanently or releasably receive the plunger P, which is not
compatible for use with the piston 88 described herein. The first
adapter 114 allows a connection mechanism 118 of the non-compatible
plunger P to engage and be retained on the first adapter 114. In
some aspects, the first adapter 114 may have a separate mechanism
for engaging and disengaging the plunger P while the first adapter
114 remains connected to the piston 88. A second portion 120 of the
first adapter 114 may have at least one retaining member 68 in
accordance with aspects described herein. In some aspects, the at
least one retaining member 68 may have one the first cam member 78,
780 described herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-3B and 6A-12B. The
second portion 120 of the first adapter 114 may releasably connect
to an injector having the piston 88 with the piston head 92
described herein. In this manner, various non-compatible plungers P
may be used. The first adapter 114 may releasably, permanently, or
semi-permanently connect to an injector having the piston 88 with
the piston head 92 described herein and allowing plungers P having
alternate connection mechanisms to be used with the injector.
[0180] With reference to FIG. 14, a second adapter 122 may connect
the plunger 26 with an injector that does not have the piston 88
with the piston head 92 described herein. In various aspects, the
second adapter 122 may connect to the plunger 26 for subsequent
engagement with a non-compatible piston P'. For example, the second
adapter 122 may be connected to the plunger 26 releasably or
permanently. Such a second adapter 122 may have a connection
interface having features of the piston head 92 in accordance with
various aspects described herein. The second adapter 122 and the
plunger 26 may be connected prior to connecting to the piston P',
or the second adapter 122 may be connected to the piston P' before
the plunger 26 is connected to the second adapter 122. The second
adapter 122 and plunger 26 may be removed from the piston P' after
use, with the second adapter 122 being disposed of with the plunger
26, or being removed from the used plunger 26 and saved for
subsequent use with a different plunger 26.
[0181] In one aspect, a first portion 124 of the second adapter 122
may permanently or releasably engaging the plunger 26, which is not
compatible for use with the piston P'. The second adapter 122
allows a connection mechanism 126 of the non-compatible piston P'
to engage the second adapter 122. A second portion 128 of the
second adapter 122 may have features of the piston head 92 in
accordance with aspects described herein. In some aspects, the
second portion 128 may have the second cam member 98, 980 described
herein with reference to FIGS. 5A and 17A. The second portion 128
of the second adapter 122 may releasably connect to the plunger 26
described herein. In this manner, the plunger 26 may be connected
to various non-compatible injectors using the second adapter
122.
[0182] Referring to FIG. 15A-15G, a piston 88 and a plunger 26 are
shown in accordance with another aspect. The piston 88 is
configured to interact with the plunger 26 (shown in FIG. 15C) to
releasably lock the plunger 26 such that the plunger 26 can be
driven reciprocally within the barrel of the syringe 12 (shown in
FIG. 2). The piston 88 is extendible and retractable from the
housing 14 of the fluid injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1) via a powered
means (not shown) preferably contained within housing 14. The
powered means may include, for example, an electric motor,
hydraulic system, or a pneumatic system, including appropriate
gearing (not shown). As known in the art, the fluid injector 10
also may include a controller for controlling operation of the
powered means and thereby controlling operation of the piston
88.
[0183] With continued reference to FIG. 15A, the piston 88 includes
a stem 90 and a piston head 92 formed on a distal end of the stem
90. At least a portion of the piston head 92 extends distally to
the stem 90. The piston head 92 is construed from a rigid material,
such as metal or plastic that resists deformation. The stem 90 may
have a cavity 91 for collecting any fluid that may drip from the
syringe and an annular collar 93 that surrounds the cavity 91. One
or more buttresses 97 connect the annular collar 93 to the stem 90.
The piston head 92 has a substantially cylindrical structure with a
pointed distal end 94 with a cap 95 that is shaped to be received
inside at least a portion of the interior cavity 40 (shown in FIG.
3A) of the plunger 26. In some aspects, a sensing member 79, such
as a pin connected to a sensor, may be provided. The sensing member
79 may extend along a longitudinal axis of the piston 88 and may
protrude through at least a portion of the piston head 92, such as
through at least a portion of the cap 95. The sensing member 79 may
be operative for sensing contact with a surface, such as a surface
of the plunger 26, and control a movement of the piston 88 based on
the sensed condition. For example, an initial contact between the
sensing member 79 and the plunger 26 may cause the pin to be
retracted in a proximal direction such that it makes contact with
the sensor. The sensing member 79 may be biased in an extended
position by a resilient element 81 (shown in FIG. 15E), such as a
spring. The sensor may be connected to the control mechanism which
controls the drive mechanism of the piston 88 such that, upon
activation of the sensor by the pin, the controller controls the
movement of the drive mechanism. For example, the drive mechanism
may be stopped or slowed from a first rate to a second, slower
rate.
[0184] With reference to FIG. 15B, the piston head 92 has a
proximal portion 103 connected to a distal portion 105. Terminal
ends of the proximal and distal portions 103, 105 may have a
radiused edge 107. At least a portion of the proximal portion 103
has a smaller outer diameter compared to an outer diameter of the
distal portion 105 such that a radial lip 109 is formed at a
transition between the proximal portion 103 and the distal portion
105. The radial lip 109 may be continuous or discontinuous around a
circumference of the piston head 92. In some aspects, the radial
lip 109 defines a locking ledge 111 for engaging the catch 74 of
the at least one retaining member 68 when the plunger 26 is fully
seated on the piston head 92.
[0185] With continued reference to FIG. 15B, the piston head 92 may
have at least one second alignment member 113 protruding radially
outward from an outer surface of the piston head 92. The at least
second alignment member 113 is shaped and/or configured for
interacting with the first alignment member 71 of the plunger 26
the facilitating alignment of the piston 88 with the plunger 26 in
order to allow for a releasable locking connection of the plunger
26 with the piston 88. In some aspects, at least a portion of the
at least second alignment member 113 may extend in a direction that
is angled relative to the direction of a piston longitudinal axis
115. For example, at least second alignment member 113 may have a
guiding surface 117 that is angled at an angle D relative to the
piston longitudinal axis 115. The guiding surface 117 is desirably
angled such that the piston head 92 may rotate around the piston
stem 90 when the proximal alignment surface 77a of the first
alignment member 71 contacts the guiding surface 117 of the second
alignment member 113.
[0186] In some aspects, a plurality of second alignment members 113
may spaced apart radially relative to the piston longitudinal axis
115 along an outer circumference of the piston head 92. In some
aspects, the number of second alignment members 113 may be equal to
a total number of retaining members 68 and first alignment members
71 on the plunger 26. The second alignment members 113 are spaced
apart circumferentially such that a retaining member 68 or a first
alignment member 71 may be received between adjacent second
alignment members 113. The second alignment members 113 may be
separated from each other by portions of an outer surface of the
proximal portion 103 and/or the distal portion 105 of the piston
head 92. In some aspects, such as shown in FIG. 20, at least a
portion of the second alignment members 113, such as a lower or
proximal end of the second alignment members 113 may be connected
by a continuous lip 123 that extends continuously around an outer
circumference of the piston head 92 at a radial position that may
be flush, radially recessed, or radially protruding relative to an
outer surface of the second alignment members 113. In aspects where
two or more second alignment members 113 are provided, the second
alignment members 113 may be evenly spaced apart from each other.
In one exemplary and non-limiting aspect with second alignment
members 113 having equal angular separation therebetween, such as
shown in FIG. 4A, each second alignment member 113 is separated by
60 degrees from the second alignment members 113 adjacent on either
side. In some aspects, the second alignment members 113 may have
unequal angular extension and/or unequal angular spacing between
the second alignment members 113 about the outer surface of the
proximal portion 103 and/or the distal portion 105 of the piston
head 92. The radial spacing of the at least one second alignment
members 113 relative to the piston longitudinal axis 115 is
selected to correspond to an inner shape of the plunger 26 to allow
the retaining members 68 and the first alignment members 71 to be
received between adjacent second alignment members 113, as
described herein.
[0187] With continued reference to FIG. 15B, each of the guiding
surfaces 117 of the second alignment members 113 define a travel
path for guiding the movement of the proximal alignment surface 77a
of the first alignment member 71 in and out of a recess 119 defined
between adjacent second alignment members 113. The guiding surfaces
117 may be inclined or angled radially and axially relative to the
piston longitudinal axis 115 to guide the movement of the proximal
alignment surfaces 77a. The guiding surfaces 117 aid in
self-orienting the piston head 92 as the plunger 26 is brought into
contact with the piston 88 by guiding the one or more proximal
alignment surfaces 77a on the plunger 26 into the corresponding
recess 119 on the piston head 92. In this manner, a piston 88 whose
piston longitudinal axis 115 is rotationally misaligned with the
plunger longitudinal axis 34 and the one or more first alignment
member 71 which are initially misaligned relative to the
corresponding one or more second alignment members 77a in a
rotational direction are brought in alignment axially and
rotationally such that the one or more first alignment members 71
are received within the recess 119 between adjacent second
alignment members 113. The one or more second alignment members 113
may have a bottom surface 121 that is angled relative to the
direction of a piston longitudinal axis 115.
[0188] The piston head 92 further has a second cam member 98. In
some aspects, the second cam member 121 cooperates with the first
cam member 78 on the at least one retaining member 68 of the
plunger 26, as described herein. The second cam member 121
desirably has a shape that, upon relative rotation between the
piston 88 and the plunger 26, engages the first cam member 78 to
cause the at least one retaining member 68 to be deflected from the
piston head 92 such that the plunger 26 can be removed from the
piston 88. In some aspects, the second cam member 121 may be formed
on or intersect with the second alignment member 113 on the piston
head 92. The second cam member 98 may be a surface that is aligned
with a direction of the piston longitudinal axis 115. The second
cam member 98 may have a chamfered portion, not shown, to
facilitate passing of the first cam member 78 after the retaining
member 68 is deflected sufficiently to allow the retaining member
to be released.
[0189] With reference to FIG. 15C, the piston 88 is configured to
interact with the plunger 26 to releasably lock with plunger 26,
such as shown in FIG. 15D. By locking the piston 88 to the plunger
26, the plunger 26 can be driven reciprocally within the barrel of
the syringe 12 (shown in FIG. 2). The second cam member 121 on the
piston 88 cooperates with the first cam member 78 on the at least
one retaining member 68 of the plunger 26, to releasably lock the
plunger 26 to the piston 88.
[0190] With reference to FIG. 15F, the piston head 92 may be
rotatable relative to the stem 90. In some aspects, the piston head
92 may be rotatable in one direction only, such as a clockwise or a
counterclockwise direction, relative to the stem 90. A one-way
rotation mechanism 99, such as a one-way clutch mechanism shown in
FIG. 15F, may be provided to allow the rotation of the piston head
92 in a first direction only, such as the clockwise or the
counterclockwise direction. The one-way rotation mechanism 99 may
be rotatable around a central shaft 101 having a seal 102, such as
an O-ring seal. In some aspects, the one-way rotation mechanism 99
may have a stop that prevents rotation of the piston head 92 in a
second direction opposite the first direction, such as the
counterclockwise or the clockwise direction, respectively. In other
aspects, the one-way rotation mechanism 99 may be provided on at
least a portion of the plunger 26.
[0191] With reference to FIG. 15G, the plunger 32 the at least one
first alignment member 71 may be provided directly on one or more
of the retaining members 68. In such aspects, at least one
retaining member 68 may have a proximal alignment surface 77a and a
distal alignment surface 77b provided directly on the body of the
at least one retaining member 68. The first cam member 78 may be
also provided directly on the retaining member 68, or it may be
provided on a portion of the plunger body 32 such that activation
of the cam member 78 causes a corresponding activation of the
retaining member 68, as described herein.
[0192] With reference to FIG. 16, a cylindrical plan projection
view of the piston 88 and the plunger 26 is shown. If the piston 88
is rotationally misaligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the
first alignment members 71 (shown in FIG. 3A) on the plunger 26 are
not in rotational alignment to be received within the recesses 119
(shown in FIG. 4C) on the plunger head 92, the proximal alignment
surface 77a (shown as a dotted line) of the first alignment member
71 on the plunger 26 contacts the guiding surface 117 of the second
alignment member 113 on the piston head 92. Engagement of the
proximal alignment surface 77a with the guiding surface 117 causes
the piston head 92 to automatically rotate in a free rotation
direction of the one-way rotation mechanism 99. Such rotation of
the piston head 92 aligns the first alignment members 71 and the
retaining members 68 to be received within the recesses 119 between
adjacent second alignment members 113. In this manner, the piston
88 self-orients itself relative to the plunger 26 such that the
plunger 26 may be releasably locked with the piston 88. If the
piston 88 is rotationally aligned relative to the plunger 26, such
as shown in FIG. 16, the first alignment members 71 and the
retaining members 68 on the plunger 26 can be received within the
recesses 119 between adjacent second alignment members 113 without
rotation of the piston head 92.
[0193] In some aspects, such as shown in FIG. 17, the width of the
second alignment member 113 on the piston head 92 in a
circumferential direction may be reduced. The plunger 26 may have
one or more secondary alignment members 68a positioned adjacent to
the one or more retaining members 68. In another aspect, such as
shown in FIGS. 18-19, the one or more secondary alignment members
68a may be spaced apart from the one or more retaining members 68
such that each secondary alignment member 68a interacting with the
one or more syringe alignment member 113 causes self-orientation
such that at least one retaining member 68 is received recess 119
on the piston head 92. The one or more secondary alignment members
68a may have a first end 70a connected to the body 32 of the
plunger and a second end 72a that protrudes in a proximal direction
which is opposite to the protrusion direction of the second end 72
of the one or more retaining members 68. The second end 72a of the
secondary retaining member 68a is deflectable in a radial direction
relative to the first end 70a. The secondary retaining members 68a
may further have an angled guide surface, for example defined by an
outer surface of the second end 72a, that cooperates with the
second alignment members 113 of the piston head 92 to align the
plunger 26 relative to the piston 88. During the
connection/disconnection process, the second end 72a of the
secondary retaining members 68a is deflected radially outward as it
passes over the region defined by the recesses 119 and is deflected
back in a radially inward direction once the second end 72a clears
the recesses 119. The one or more secondary retaining members 68a
may have a latching member (not shown) to lock with at least a
portion of the piston head 92, such as the radial lip 109.
[0194] With reference to FIGS. 21A-21C, a plunger 26 and a piston
88 are shown in accordance with another aspect of the present
disclosure. The components of the plunger 26 shown in FIGS. 21A-21C
are substantially similar to the components of the plunger 26
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-4C. Similarly, the
components of the piston 88 shown in FIGS. 21A-21C are
substantially similar to the components of the piston 88 described
herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C. Reference numerals in FIGS.
21A-21C are used to illustrate identical components of the
corresponding reference numerals in FIGS. 4A-4C. As the previous
discussion regarding the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown
in FIGS. 3A-4C is applicable to the aspect of the present
disclosure shown in FIGS. 21A-21C, only the relative differences
between the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 3A-4C
and the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 21A-21C
are discussed hereinafter.
[0195] With reference to FIG. 21A, the plunger 26 may have at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member 68 (hereinafter
"retaining member 68") protruding from the plunger body 32. In some
aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may protrude in a
circumferential direction extending around an inner circumference
of the inner surface 52 of the interior cavity 40. In some aspects,
the at least one retaining member 68 may extend substantially
perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger body 32.
In other aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may be
angled in a distal or proximal direction relative a plane extending
perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger body
32.
[0196] With continued reference to FIG. 21A, the at least one
retaining member 68 has a first end 70 connected to the plunger
body 32 and a second end 72 extending circumferentially around at
least a portion an inner circumference of the plunger body 32
relative to the first end 70. The second end 72 may deflect or
twist relative to the first end 70. As described herein, the second
end 72 may be circumferentially deflectable toward or away from the
inner surface of the plunger body 32 relative to the first end 70.
The first end 70 and the second end 72 may be spaced apart in a
direction that extends substantially circumferentially around an
inner surface of the plunger body 32. The at least one retaining
member 68 may be linearly, stepwise, or curvilinearly contiguous
between the first end 70 and the second end 72. In some aspects, a
plurality of retaining members 68 may spaced apart radially
relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 along a circumference
of the inner surface 52 of the interior cavity 40. The retaining
members 68 may be separated from each other, such as by even or
uneven spacing, by portions of the inner surface 52 of the interior
cavity 40. The radial spacing of the at least one retaining member
68 relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 is selected to
correspond to or operably interact with an outer shape of the
piston, as described herein.
[0197] With reference to FIG. 21B, the second end 72 of the
retaining member 68 has at least one catch 74 that is shaped to be
engage at least a portion of a recess, lip, or ledge on the piston
to lock the at least one retaining member 68, along with the
plunger 26, relative to the piston. In some aspects, the at least
one catch 74 may protrude radially inward or outward relative to a
body of the retaining member 68. The at least one catch 74 may be
formed integrally with the second end 72 of the at least one
retaining member 68 or it may be affixed or otherwise secured to
the second end 72 of the at least one retaining member 68 using,
for example, a frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by
molding.
[0198] With reference to FIG. 21C, the plunger 26 may have at least
one first cam member 78 that interacts with a piston of the fluid
injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1) to radially deflect the at least one
retaining member 68 upon rotation of the plunger 26 relative to the
piston, as described herein. The at least one first cam member 78
may be provided at the second end 72 of the retaining member 68.
The at least one first cam member 78 may be angled at an angle B
relative to the body of the retaining member 68.
[0199] The plunger 26 may have at least alignment member, such as
the first alignment member 71 shown in FIG. 3A protruding from the
plunger body 32. As described herein, the at least one first
alignment member 71 is shaped and/or configured for facilitating
self-orienting alignment of the plunger 26 with the piston 88.
[0200] To engage the plunger 26 with the piston 88, the syringe 12
is first inserted into the syringe port 16 of the fluid injector 10
(shown in FIG. 1), as described herein. If the piston 88 is
rotationally misaligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the
one or more alignment members on the plunger 26 are not in
rotational alignment to be received within the recesses 119 on the
plunger head 92, the one or more alignment members on the plunger
26 contact the guiding surface 117 of the second alignment member
113 on the piston head 92 to rotate the piston head 92 into
alignment for connecting to the plunger 26. In this manner, the
piston 88 self-orients itself relative to the plunger 26 such that
the plunger 26 may be releasably locked with the piston 88. Distal
movement of the piston 92 causes the retaining members 68 to
deflect outward relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 from a
first, undeflected position, to a second, radially deflected
position. The piston 88 is advanced distally until the terminal
portion of the second end 72 clears the retaining members 68,
thereby allowing them to deflect radially inward toward or to their
initial undeflected position. The catch 74 of at least one
retaining member 68 is retained within the locking ledge 111 to
prevent disengagement of the plunger 26 from the piston head
92.
[0201] To unlock the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 and
disengage the plunger 26 from the piston 88, the syringe 12 is
rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about the syringe
longitudinal axis, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction,
relative to the syringe port 16. Rotation of the syringe 12, and
thereby the plunger 26, about the plunger longitudinal axis 34
engages the first cam member 78 on the plunger 26 with the piston
head 92. Such movement causes a deflection of the at least one
retaining member 68 away from the piston head 92 to unlock the
plunger 26 from the piston head 92 and allow the removal of the
syringe 12.
[0202] With reference to FIGS. 22A-22D, a plunger 26 and a piston
88 are shown in accordance with another aspect of the present
disclosure. The components of the plunger 26 shown in FIGS. 22A-22D
are substantially similar to the components of the plunger 26
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-4C. Similarly, the
components of the piston 88 shown in FIGS. 22A-22D are
substantially similar to the components of the piston 88 described
herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C. Reference numerals in FIGS.
22A-22D are used to illustrate identical components of the
corresponding reference numerals in FIGS. 4A-4C. As the previous
discussion regarding the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown
in FIGS. 3A-4C is applicable to the aspect of the present
disclosure shown in FIGS. 22A-22D, only the relative differences
between the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 3A-4C
and the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 22A-22D
are discussed hereinafter.
[0203] With reference to FIG. 22A, the plunger 26 may have at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member 68 (hereinafter
"retaining member 68") protruding from the plunger body 32. In some
aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may be U-shaped, with
a first portion 130 having a first end 132 connected to the plunger
body 32 and a second end 134 extending in a direction toward the
proximal end of the plunger body 32. The at least one retaining
member 68 may further have a transition portion 136 connected to
the second end 134 of the first portion 130. A first end 138 of a
second portion 140 may be connected to the transition portion 136
at an end opposite to the connection of the second end 134 of the
first portion 130. The transition portion 136 extends in a radial
direction relative to the longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger body
32 and connects the first portion 130 to the second portion 140. A
second end 142 of the second portion 140 extends toward the distal
end of the plunger body 32. The first portion 130, the second
portion 140, or both may deflect or twist relative to the plunger
body 32. For example, the second end 134 of the first portion 130
may be deflectable in a radial or circumferential direction
relative to the first end 132 and the plunger body 132.
Alternatively, or in addition, the second end 142 of the second
portion 140 may be deflectable in a radial or circumferential
direction relative to the first end 138, and therefore, relative to
the first portion 130 and the plunger body 32. In some aspects, a
plurality of retaining members 68 may be spaced apart radially
relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 along a circumference
of the inner surface 52 of the interior cavity 40. The retaining
members 68 may be separated from each other, such as by even or
uneven spacing, by portions of the inner surface 52 of the interior
cavity 40. The radial spacing of the at least one retaining member
68 relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 is selected to
correspond to or operably interact with an outer shape of the
piston, as described herein.
[0204] With reference to FIG. 22A, the second end 142 of the second
portion 140 of the retaining member 68 has at least one catch 74
that is shaped to be engage at least a portion of a recess, lip, or
ledge on the piston to lock the at least one retaining member 68,
along with the plunger 26, relative to the piston. In some aspects,
the at least one catch 74 may protrude radially inward or outward
relative to a body of the retaining member 68. The at least one
catch 74 may be formed integrally with the second end 142 of the
second portion 140 of the at least one retaining member 68 or it
may be affixed or otherwise secured to the second end 72 of the at
least one retaining member 68 using, for example, a frictional fit
and/or an adhesive, welding, or by molding.
[0205] With reference to FIG. 22C, the plunger 26 may have at least
one first cam member 78 that interacts with a piston of the fluid
injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1) to radially deflect the at least one
retaining member 68 upon rotation of the plunger 26 relative to the
piston, as described herein. The at least one first cam member 78
may be provided on the second portion 140 of the at least one
retaining member 68. The at least one first cam member 78 may be
angled at an angle B relative to the body of the retaining member
68.
[0206] With reference to FIG. 22A, the plunger 26 may have at least
one first alignment member 71 defined on at least a portion of the
at least one retaining member 68, such as the transition portion
136. The at least one first alignment member 71 is shaped and/or
configured for facilitating self-orienting alignment of the plunger
26 with the piston 88. In some aspects, at least a portion of the
at least one first alignment member 71 may extend in a direction
that is angled relative to the direction of the plunger
longitudinal axis 34. For example, at least one first alignment
member 71 may have a proximal alignment surface 77a that is angled
at an angle C relative to the longitudinal axis 34 to facilitate
positioning of the retaining member 68 during connection of the
plunger 26 to a piston. The proximal alignment surface 77a helps
guide the plunger 26 into self-orienting alignment with the piston,
as described herein.
[0207] To engage the plunger 26 with the piston 88, the syringe 12
is first inserted into the syringe port 16 of the fluid injector 10
(shown in FIG. 1), as described herein. If the piston 88 is
rotationally misaligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the
one or more alignment members on the plunger 26 are not in
rotational alignment to be received within the recesses 119 on the
plunger head 92, the one or more alignment members on the plunger
26 contact the guiding surface 117 of the second alignment member
113 on the piston head 92 to rotate the piston head 92 into
alignment for connecting to the plunger 26. In this manner, the
piston 88 self-orients itself relative to the plunger 26 such that
the plunger 26 may be releasably locked with the piston 88. Distal
movement of the piston 92 causes the retaining members 68 to
deflect outward relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 from a
first, undeflected position, to a second, radially deflected
position. The piston 88 is advanced distally until the terminal
portion of the second end 72 clears the retaining members 68,
thereby allowing them to deflect radially inward toward or to their
initial undeflected position. The catch 74 of at least one
retaining member 68 is retained within the locking ledge 111 to
prevent disengagement of the plunger 26 from the piston head
92.
[0208] To unlock the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 and
disengage the plunger 26 from the piston 88, the syringe 12 is
rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about the syringe
longitudinal axis, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction,
relative to the syringe port 16. Rotation of the syringe 12, and
thereby the plunger 26, about the plunger longitudinal axis 34
engages the first cam member 78 on the plunger 26 with the piston
head 92. Such movement causes a deflection of the at least one
retaining member 68 away from the piston head 92 to unlock the
plunger 26 from the piston head 92 and allow the removal of the
syringe 12.
[0209] With reference to FIGS. 23A-23D, a plunger 26 and a piston
88 are shown in accordance with another aspect of the present
disclosure. The components of the plunger 26 shown in FIGS. 23A-23D
are substantially similar to the components of the plunger 26
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-4C. Similarly, the
components of the piston 88 shown in FIGS. 23A-23D are
substantially similar to the components of the piston 88 described
herein with reference to FIGS. 23A-23D. Reference numerals in FIGS.
23A-23D are used to illustrate identical components of the
corresponding reference numerals in FIGS. 4A-4C. As the previous
discussion regarding the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown
in FIGS. 3A-4C is applicable to the aspect of the present
disclosure shown in FIGS. 23A-23D, only the relative differences
between the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 3A-4C
and the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 23A-23D
are discussed herein.
[0210] With reference to FIG. 23A, the plunger 26 may have at least
one resiliently deflectable retaining member 68 (hereinafter
"retaining member 68") protruding from the plunger body 32. In some
aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may protrude in a
proximal direction toward the proximal end of the plunger body 32.
In some aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may extend
substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger
body 32. In other aspects, the at least one retaining member 68 may
be angled relative to the longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger body
32.
[0211] With continued reference to FIG. 23A, the at least one
retaining member 68 has a first end 70 connected to the plunger
body 32 and a second end 72 extending in a proximal direction
relative to the first end 70. The second end 72 may deflect or
twist relative to the first end 70. As described herein, the second
end 72 may be radially deflectable toward or away from the inner
surface of the plunger body 32 relative to the first end 70. The at
least one retaining member 68 may be linearly, stepwise, or
curvilinearly contiguous between the first end 70 and the second
end 72. In some aspects, a plurality of retaining members 68 may
spaced apart radially relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34
along a circumference of the inner surface 52 of the interior
cavity 40. The retaining members 68 may be separated from each
other, such as by even or uneven spacing, by portions of the inner
surface 52 of the interior cavity 40. The radial spacing of the at
least one retaining member 68 relative to the plunger longitudinal
axis 34 is selected to correspond to or operably interact with an
outer shape of the piston, as described herein.
[0212] With reference to FIG. 23B, the second end 72 of the
retaining member 68 has at least one catch 74 that is shaped to be
engage at least a portion of a recess, lip, or ledge on the piston
to lock the at least one retaining member 68, along with the
plunger 26, relative to the piston. In some aspects, the at least
one catch 74 may protrude radially inward or outward relative to a
body of the retaining member 68. The at least one catch 74 may be
formed integrally with the second end 72 of the at least one
retaining member 68 or it may be affixed or otherwise secured to
the second end 72 of the at least one retaining member 68 using,
for example, a frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or by
molding.
[0213] With reference to FIG. 23C, the plunger 26 may have at least
one first cam member 78 that interacts with a piston of the fluid
injector 10 (shown in FIG. 1) to radially deflect the at least one
retaining member 68 upon rotation of the plunger 26 relative to the
piston, as described herein. The at least one first cam member 78
may be provided at the second end 72 of the retaining member 68.
The at least one first cam member 78 may be angled at an angle B
relative to the body of the retaining member 68.
[0214] The plunger 26 may have at least alignment member, such as
the first alignment member 71 protruding from the plunger body 32.
As described herein, the at least one first alignment member 71 is
shaped and/or configured for facilitating self-orienting alignment
of the plunger 26 with the piston 88. The at least one first
alignment member 71 may be provided adjacent to the at least one
retaining member 68.
[0215] To engage the plunger 26 with the piston 88, the syringe 12
is first inserted into the syringe port 16 of the fluid injector 10
(shown in FIG. 1), as described herein. If the piston 88 is
rotationally misaligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the
one or more alignment members 71 on the plunger 26 are not in
rotational alignment to be received within the recesses 119 on the
plunger head 92, the one or more alignment members 71 on the
plunger 26 contact the guiding surface 117 of the second alignment
member 113 on the piston head 92 to rotate the piston head 92 into
alignment for connecting to the plunger 26. In this manner, the
piston 88 self-orients itself relative to the plunger 26 such that
the plunger 26 may be releasably locked with the piston 88. Distal
movement of the piston 92 causes the retaining members 68 to
deflect outward relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34 from a
first, undeflected position, to a second, radially deflected
position. The piston 88 is advanced distally until the terminal
portion of the second end 72 clears the retaining members 68,
thereby allowing them to deflect radially inward toward or to their
initial undeflected position. The catch 74 of at least one
retaining member 68 is retained within the locking ledge 111 to
prevent disengagement of the plunger 26 from the piston head
92.
[0216] To unlock the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 and
disengage the plunger 26 from the piston 88, the syringe 12 is
rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about the syringe
longitudinal axis, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction,
relative to the syringe port 16. Rotation of the syringe 12, and
thereby the plunger 26, about the plunger longitudinal axis 34
engages the first cam member 78 on the plunger 26 with the piston
head 92. Such movement causes a deflection of the at least one
retaining member 68 away from the piston head 92 to unlock plunger
26 from the piston head 92 and allow the removal of syringe 12.
[0217] With reference to FIGS. 24A-24C, a plunger 26 and a piston
88 are shown in accordance with additional aspects of the present
disclosure. The components of the plunger 26 shown in FIGS. 24A-24C
are substantially similar to the components of the plunger 26
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3A-4C. Similarly, the
components of the piston 88 shown in FIGS. 24A-24C are
substantially similar to the components of the piston 88 described
herein with reference to FIGS. 24A-24C. Reference numerals in FIGS.
24A-24C are used to illustrate identical components of the
corresponding reference numerals in FIGS. 4A-4C. As the previous
discussion regarding the plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown
in FIGS. 3A-4C is applicable to the aspect of the present
disclosure shown in FIGS. 24A-24C, only the relative differences
between plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 3A-4C and
plunger 26 and piston 88 generally shown in FIGS. 24A-24C are
discussed herein.
[0218] With reference to FIG. 24A-24C, the plunger 26 may have at
least retaining member 68a protruding radially outward from an
outer surface of the plunger body 32. The at least one retaining
member 68a is formed as a protrusion that is comprised of one or
more distinct elements. In some aspects, the retaining member 68a
is integrally formed with the plunger body 32 such that the
retaining member 68a is fixed relative to the plunger body 32. In
other aspects, at least a portion of the retaining member 68a may
be movable or deflectable relative to another portion of the
retaining member 68a and/or relative to the plunger body 32. The at
least one retaining member 68a has a first end 70 connected to the
plunger body 32 and a second end 72 extending in a proximal
direction relative to the first end 70. The at least one retaining
member 68a may be linearly, stepwise, or curvilinearly contiguous
between the first end 70 and the second end 72. For example, the at
least one retaining member 68a may have a first portion separated
from a second portion by a segment of the plunger body 32 (FIG.
24A). In other aspects, the at least one retaining member 68a may
be continuous between the first end 70 and the second end 72. At
least a portion of the at least one retaining member 68a may be
angled relative to the longitudinal axis 34 of the plunger body 32.
The angled portion, such as alignment surface 71a, may interact
with at least a portion of the piston 88 to assist in
self-orienting alignment of the plunger 26 relative to the piston
88.
[0219] In some aspects, a plurality of retaining members 68a may be
spaced apart radially relative to the plunger longitudinal axis 34
along a circumference of the inner surface 52 of the interior
cavity 40. The retaining members 68a may be separated from each
other, such as by even or uneven spacing, by portions of the inner
surface 52 of the interior cavity 40. The radial spacing of the at
least one retaining member 68a relative to the plunger longitudinal
axis 34 is selected to correspond to or operably interact with an
outer shape of the piston, as described herein.
[0220] The second end 72 of the retaining member 68a has at least
one catch 74a that is shaped to be engage at least a portion of a
recess, lip, or ledge on the piston 88 to lock the at least one
retaining member 68a, along with the plunger 26, relative to the
piston 88. In some aspects, the at least one catch 74a may be
defined as a ledge or a step that is configured to engage at least
a portion of a recess, lip, or ledge on the piston 88 to lock the
at least one retaining member 68a, along with the plunger 26,
relative to the piston 88. The at least one catch 74a may be formed
integrally the second end 72 of the at least one retaining member
68a or it may be affixed or otherwise secured to second end 72 of
the at least one retaining member 68a using, for example, a
frictional fit and/or an adhesive, welding, or molding.
[0221] To engage the plunger 26 with the piston 88, the syringe 12
is first inserted into the syringe port 16 of the fluid injector 10
(shown in FIG. 1), as described herein. If the piston 88 is
rotationally misaligned relative to the plunger 26 such that the
alignment surface 71a on the plunger 26 is not in rotational
alignment to be received within the recesses 119 on the plunger
head 92, the alignment surface 71a on the plunger 26 contacts the
guiding surface 117 of the second alignment member 113 on the
piston head 92 to rotate the piston head 92 into alignment for
connecting to the plunger 26. In this manner, the piston 88
self-orients itself relative to the plunger 26 such that the
plunger 26 may be releasably locked with the piston 88. Distal
movement of the piston 92 causes the retaining members 68a to move
within a recess 119 defined between the adjacent second alignment
members 113 on the piston 88. The piston 88 is advanced distally
until the terminal portion of the second end 72 of the retaining
members 68a clears the second alignment members 113, thereby
allowing the retaining members 68a to slide underneath the second
alignment members 113 of the plunger 88 until the catch 74a engages
at least a portion of a recess, lip, or ledge on the piston 88 to
lock the at least one retaining member 68a, along with the plunger
26, relative to piston 88.
[0222] To unlock the syringe 12 from the syringe port 16 and
disengage the plunger 26 from the piston 88, the syringe 12 is
rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about the syringe
longitudinal axis, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction,
relative to the syringe port 16. Rotation of the syringe 12, and
thereby the plunger 26, about the plunger longitudinal axis 34
causes at least a portion of the retaining members 68a, such as the
proximal end 70, to engage at least a portion of the second
alignment members 113 on the piston 88. The engagement between the
retaining members 68a with the second alignment members 113 causes
the retaining members 68a to be urged in the distal direction due
to the inclined shape of the second alignment members 113.
[0223] Next, referring to FIGS. 25-27, an injector assembly 2000 in
accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure is shown.
Injector assembly 2000 comprises a housing 2002, which houses an
automated or powered fluid injector. The fluid injector is adapted
to interface with and actuate one or more syringes, wherein each
syringe may be independently filled with a medical fluid such as
contrast media, saline solution, or any desired medical fluid, as
is similarly described above with respect to FIG. 1. For example,
the injector housing 2002 is configured to accept and hold syringes
2006a, 2006b, each containing a medical fluid therein.
[0224] As is known in the art, syringes 2006a, 2006b are often made
of polypropylene or a similar material having a certain minimum
wall thickness. Syringes 2006a, 2006b are subject to pressures of
up to 1200 psi when used to inject fluid into a patient, and thus
wall thickness and resilience of the syringe are important in
ensuring that the syringe does not burst or leak. To further combat
possible radial expansion of syringes 2006a, 2006b when subject to
high pressure injection, respective pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b
may be utilized to enclose and retain syringes 2006a, 2006b.
Pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b act to limit radial expansion of the
syringe barrels. That is, during an injection procedure, exterior
walls of syringes 2006a, 2006b expand against an interior wall of
respective pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b, thereby limiting the
radial expansion of the exterior walls of syringes that could
otherwise lead to bursting or leakage.
[0225] Pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b may be separate elements or
may be formed in a one-piece, monolithic design. Pressure jackets
2004a, 2004b are retained on an injector head of housing 2002 via
respective attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b.
[0226] In addition to radial forces acting on syringes 2006a, 2006b
and pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b, significant axial movement
during high pressure injection is also possible due to the elastic
nature of the structural components restraining syringes 2006a,
2006b. For example, a single 150 ml syringe having a
cross-sectional area of 1.6 in.sup.2 at 1200 psi may require a
force of 2400 psi to restrain forward motion of the syringe. To
restrict this axial motion of syringes 2006a, 2006b, respective
caps 2008a, 2008b may be used to partially encapsulate the distal
end of syringes 2006a, 2006b and retain syringes 2006a, 2006b
within the injector and within pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b during
high-pressure injection. Caps 2008a, 2008b have an opening formed
on a distal end thereof to allow at least a portion of a neck
2009a, 2009b of syringes 2006a, 2006b to protrude therethrough,
thereby allowing syringes 2006a, 2006b to be connected to fluid
lines leading to the patient.
[0227] Due to the axial forces imparted on syringes 2006a, 2006b,
it is desirable for the attachment interfaces between the pressure
jackets 2004a, 2004b and the housing 2002 and between the caps
2008a, 2008b and the pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b to be of
sufficient strength to resist undo axial movement or inadvertent
detachment. However, while strength is key, it is also important
for an operator to be able to easily remove the caps 2008a, 2008b
and/or pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b, as it is necessary to remove
or insert syringes 2006a, 2006b. Accordingly, it is desirable for
the connection interface between pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b and
housing 2002 to be sufficiently secure, yet allow for easy
attachment and removal. Similarly, it is desirable for a connection
interface between caps 2008a, 2008b and pressure jackets 2004a,
2004b to also be secure, yet allow for easy attachment and
removal.
[0228] In order to achieve these desired attributes, attachment
interfaces 2020a, 2020b of the housing 2002 may have connector
features similar to those of piston head 92 shown and described
with respect to FIGS. 4A-4C, while attachment interfaces 2010a,
2010b of the pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b may have connector
features similar to those of plunger 26 shown and described with
respect to FIGS. 3A-3E. That is, attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b
of the housing 2002 may comprise one or more alignment members,
similar to alignment members 113, disposed on a one-way rotation
mechanism (similar to one-way rotation mechanism 99) that are
positioned circumferentially about injector openings on the housing
2002. Each one-way rotation mechanism is preferably positioned
about an injector opening of the housing 2002 so as to allow
respective piston heads 92 to pass therethrough and into respective
syringes 2006a, 2006b. Complementary to the connector features of
the attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b, attachment interfaces
2010a, 2010b of the pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b may comprise one
or more retaining members, similar to retaining members 68 shown
and described with respect FIGS. 3A-3E, as well as one or more
alignment members, similar to alignment members 71, again shown and
described with respect to FIGS. 3A-3E. Attachment interfaces 2010a,
2010b are configured to be circumferentially located about an
opening on the proximal end of the pressure jackets 2004a, 2006b so
as to allow respective syringes 2006a, 2006b to pass
therethrough.
[0229] In operation, attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b and
attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b are configured to interact in a
manner substantially similar to the interaction between and plunger
26 and piston head 92, as shown and described in detail with
respect to FIGS. 5A-5D. That is, as attachment interfaces 2010a,
2010b are axially directed toward respective attachment interfaces
2020a, 2020b, alignment members (and corresponding alignment
surfaces) on each of attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b and
attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b interact, if necessary, to
enable the pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b to be secured to the
housing 2002. As described in detail above with respect to FIGS.
3A-5D, in the event that the alignment members of corresponding
alignment interfaces contact one another during attachment, the
alignment members disposed on the one-way rotation mechanism on
attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b are configured to ride along the
corresponding alignment surfaces of the alignment members within
attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b until sufficient axial
engagement has been achieved. One or more retaining members within
attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b, which preferably protrude
inwardly from a proximal end of attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b,
are then configured to engage a radial lip or ledge within each of
attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b to securely attach the pressure
jackets 2004a, 2004b to the housing 2002.
[0230] To detach pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b from housing 2002,
pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b can be rotated (together or
separately) relative to housing 2002 in a direction opposite the
rotational direction of the one-way rotation mechanism. Rotation of
pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b allows a cam surface on the alignment
members of attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b to interact with a
cam surface on the at least one retaining member of attachment
interfaces 2010a, 2010b, similar to that which is described above
with respect to FIGS. 3A-5D. This interaction of cam surfaces acts
to push the at least one retaining member radially outward such
that the at least one retaining member no longer engages the radial
lip or ledge within the attachment interfaces 2020a, 2020b, at
which point the pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b can be axially
detached from the housing 2002.
[0231] In accordance with an alternative aspect of the disclosure,
the structural details of attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b and
2020a, 2020b described above could be reversed. That is, attachment
interfaces 2010a, 2010b of the housing 2002 could comprise, for
example, the at least one retaining member and corresponding
features, while the attachment interfaces 2010a, 2010b of the
pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b could comprise the alignment members,
one-way rotation mechanism, and radial lip or ledge.
[0232] Next, referring to FIG. 26, an alternative aspect of the
disclosure is shown. As discussed above, it is preferable to have
caps 2008a, 2008b disposed about a distal end of respective
pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b so as to axially retain the
respective syringes therein. Caps 2008a, 2008b preferably have
respective attachment interfaces 2014a, 2014b for attachment to the
pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b, as well as an opening formed therein
to allow a portion of the syringe to extend therethrough.
[0233] To obtain a secure connection between pressure jackets
2004a, 2004b and caps 2008a, 2008b, it would be advantageous to
configure the respective interfaces between pressure jackets 2004a,
2004b and caps 2008a, 2008b such that they interact in manner
substantially similar to the interaction between piston head 92 and
plunger 26, as shown and described in detail with respect to FIGS.
5A-5D. As shown in FIG. 26, pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b may have
respective attachment interfaces 2012a, 2012b at distal ends
thereof for engagement with respective caps 2008a, 2008b.
Attachment interfaces 2014a, 2014b of the caps 2008a, 2008b may
include one or more retaining members and one or more alignment
members therein, as is shown and described with respect to FIGS.
3A-5D. Attachment interfaces 2012a, 2012b of the pressure jackets
2004a, 2004b may include one or more alignment members and a
one-way rotation mechanism. The engagement between attachment
interfaces 2012a, 2012b of the pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b and
the attachment interfaces 2014a, 2014b of respective caps 2008a,
2008b may be identical or substantially similar to that described
above with respect to FIGS. 3A-5D, and FIG. 25. In this manner, the
caps 2008a, 2008b may be securely engageable with, and readily
detachable from, the distal end of pressure jackets 2004a,
2004b.
[0234] As an alternative to a cap 2008 separate from and
surrounding a portion of a syringe, FIG. 27 shows a syringe
assembly 2030 having a syringe body 2032 with a cap 2036 integrated
therewith. That is, the cap 2036 may be molded or formed directly
with the syringe body 2032. A neck portion 2034 extends from a
distal surface of the cap 2036 to provide a connection point for
fluid lines leading to the patient. An attachment interface 2038,
similar to attachment interfaces 2014a, 2014b shown and described
with respect to FIG. 26, is formed in the cap 2036. As similarly
described above with respect to FIG. 26, the attachment interface
2038 may include one or more retaining members and one or more
alignment members therein which interact with the corresponding
attachment interface 2012 of the pressure jackets 2004. Again, the
engagement between attachment interface 2012 of the pressure
jackets 2004 and the attachment interface 2038 of respective
syringe assembly 2030 may be identical or substantially similar to
that described above with respect to FIGS. 3A-5D, FIG. 25, and FIG.
26.
[0235] In accordance with an alternative aspect of the disclosure,
the structural details of attachment interfaces 2012a, 2012b, and
2014a, 2014b described above could be reversed. That is, attachment
interfaces 2012a, 2012b of pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b could
comprise, for example, the at least one retaining member and
corresponding features, while the attachment interfaces 2014a,
2014b of the caps 2008a, 2008b could comprise the alignment
members, one-way rotation mechanism, and radial lip or ledge.
Likewise, the structural details of the attachment interface 2012
and 2038 described above could be reversed, with attachment
interfaces 2012 of the pressure jacket 2004 comprising, for
example, the at least one retaining member and corresponding
features, while the attachment interface 2038 of each syringe
assembly 2030 could comprise the alignment members, one-way
rotation mechanism, and radial lip or ledge.
[0236] While shown and described as being integrated with pressure
jackets 2004a, 2004b, one or both of attachment interfaces 2010a,
2010b and 2012a, 2012b of pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b may
alternatively be formed of a separate component attachable to the
proximal or distal end of pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b. In this
way, a conventional pressure jacket could be adapted with one or
more separate attachment interfaces to enable the pressure jacket
to securely interface with an appropriately-equipped housing, a cap
similar to the cap 2008 discussed above, and/or a syringe assembly
having an integrated cap, similar to syringe assembly 2030
discussed above.
[0237] Additionally, the respective engagements between attachment
interfaces of housing 2002, pressure jackets 2004a, 2004b, caps
2008a, 2008b, and/or syringe assembly 2030 are not limited to the
structural details shown and described with respect to FIGS. 3A-5D.
Instead, the attachment interfaces could respectively utilize the
structural details of the plunger/piston head engagement shown and
described with respect to FIGS. 6A-12B, the details shown and
described with respect to FIGS. 15A-15G, the details shown and
described with respect to FIGS. 20-22D, the details shown and
described with respect to FIGS. 23A-24C, or any combination
thereof.
[0238] Although the disclosure has been described in detail for the
purpose of illustration based on what are currently considered to
be the most practical and preferred aspects, it is to be understood
that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the disclosure
is not limited to the disclosed aspects, but, on the contrary, is
intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements. For
example, it is to be understood that the present disclosure
contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of
any aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other
aspect.
* * * * *